Principles and current concepts in the surgical treatment of fragility fractures in the elderly

Abstract

The constant rise in fragility fractures is proportional to the constant rise in life expectancy. Treatment of fragility fractures can be challenging because of severe fractures, poor bone quality, significant co-morbidities, and reduced mobility. However, new surgical techniques and implants have been developed that address these challenges and show improvement in overall patient outcomes. This review addresses general considerations including nonsurgical and surgical treatments of fractures as well as treatment of specific fragility fractures of the extremities. Based on these findings, this chapter gives treatment recommendations for a selection of common geriatric fractures. The aim of treating fragility fractures is on the early mobilization to prevent complications such as pneumonia. However, the patient's general situation should be taken into consideration while recommending appropriate treatment strategies.