[Characteristics of elective hip replacement in the elderly]

Abstract

Due to demographic changes the number of elderly patients undergoing hip replacement surgery is increasing. In order to ensure safe treatment of elderly patients, age-specific medical factors must be taken into consideration. This article presents an overview of these factors. Furthermore, we evaluated our own patients treated between 2010 and 2015 regarding age-related treatment strategies and complication rates. Out of 3166 patients a total of 439 were over 80 years old (average age 84 years). It can be concluded from the scientific literature and from own data that elective hip replacement surgery in elderly patients is a technically safe procedure; however, the risk profile of each patient must be thoroughly analyzed so that in the event of even minor signs of potential complications countermeasures can be taken in good time.

Keywords: Indications; Mobility; Reintegration; Risk factors; Total hip replacement.