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Hip fractures

Long-Term Care Nursing Advisor, August 10, 2007

A hip fracture is a break of the proximal femur at the connection where it angles into the hip socket. Most hip fractures occur in the femoral neck, 1-2 inches from the joint. An intertrochanteric fracture is another common injury that occurs when the break is 3-4 inches from the joint. A hip fracture is a devastating injury for persons of all ages, particularly the elderly. Only one in four patients recovers completely; 40% will require nursing facility care, 50% will need a cane or walker, and 24 of those over age 50 will die within 12 months of complications.

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