Failure to treat osteoporosis and the risk of subsequent fractures in elderly patients with previous hip fracture: a five-year retrospective study

Abstract

Background and aims: Considering the results of cost-effective analyses, the National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends osteoporosis treatment for patients with previous hip fracture. The aim of this study was to examine the application of adequate treatment for osteoporosis among patients who have had a hip fracture. We also evaluated the rate of subsequent fractures after five years.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective data study, with a follow-up at five years after discharge, in a tertiary teaching hospital with orthopedic services and all medical specialities. Treatment for osteoporosis and subsequent fracture rates were evaluated in 114 patients with hip fracture. Functional status was assessed using the Barthel Index (BI). We also evaluated the rate of subsequent fractures after five years.

Results: Twenty-five patients (22%) had a new fracture at some moment during the follow-up. Six percent at discharge and 12% at five years of follow-up were receiving adequate treatment for osteoporosis. After five years of follow-up, a decline in their BI persisted in 72% of the 43 surviving patients.

Conclusions: Few patients were receiving adequate treatment for osteoporosis after hip fracture. Their fracture rates and functional decline were important.