Postoperative Complications of Peritrochanteric Fractures in Elderly over 65 years

Kim, Byung Jik; Ko, Han Suk; Seo, Jeong Gook; Choo, Suk Kyu; Choi, Ik Kyu; Shin, Jae Kie

Abstract

The mortality and morbidity of peritrochanteric fractures in the elderly are great due to preexisting diseases, the osteoporosis, and poor general conditions. Since the complications sometimes lead to death, it is utmost important to reduce the complications and to prevent them. Authors had experienced 42 peritrochanteric fractures over 65 years old from January, 1988 to December, 1992. Age incidence was distributed from 65 to 93 years. The sites of fractures were 17 femoral neck, 24 intertrochanteric, 1 subtrochanteric. The mortality at postoperative 6 months was 10.2%. The postoperative complications were 6 cardiovascular diseases, 3 pneunonia, 3 pressure sore etc. The results according to interval between injury and operation were not significant, but reducing risk factors following check-up of general conditions was significant. It was necessary in treatment of elderly peritrochanteric fractures to check the general conditions, to reduce risk factors, to choose appropriate method of operation and anesthesia, and to operate as soon as possible by experienced surgeon. Postoperative early ambulation was also significant at good results. The percutaneous pinning under local anesthesia was an recommendable method in patients with severely poor general conditions.