Fall Risk Assessment Metrics for Elderly Patients With Hip Fractures

Orthopedics. 2018 May 1;41(3):142-156. doi: 10.3928/01477447-20180501-07. Epub 2018 May 9.

Abstract

The most common surgery performed by orthopedic surgeons likely involves that for hip fractures. The incidence of hip fractures is anticipated to rise in the coming decades. Hip fractures most commonly occur in elderly women with osteoporosis after a fall from standing position. In an effort to reduce the incidence, improve the postoperative care, and accelerate the rehabilitation of hip fractures, it is important to evaluate the fall risk of these patients, as it is an objective indication of their level of physical activity. Metrics currently available for the evaluation of fall risk in the elderly vary widely, with each having been designed to assess a specific patient population. However, their applicability has often proved to be much broader than expected. This review summarizes the metrics available for fall risk assessment of elderly patients with hip fractures, describes their individual features and efficacy, and highlights those that seem to be more reliable for the assessment of rehabilitation of these patients after hip fracture surgery. [Orthopedics. 2018; 41(3):142-156.].

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Accidental Falls*
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Exercise Test
  • Gait
  • Hip Fractures / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Osteoporosis / complications
  • Postural Balance
  • Risk Assessment / methods*
  • Risk Factors