Geriatric orthopedic surgery

Abstract

Among older adults, musculoskeletal disorders are very common and often interfere with function and quality of life. These conditions include arthritic joints, fragility fractures, musculoskeletal infections, degeneration and tearing of tendons, tendinitis, and compressive disorders of the spine and peripheral nerves. Because patients are living longer, healthier lives and have higher expectations for the quality of their lives than previous generations, many older patients will seek musculoskeletal care to improve their function and quality of life. Older adults have tremendous variability in their health status and physiologic state, both of which must be carefully considered when providing musculoskeletal care. Simply stated, the older adult orthopedic patient is very different from younger adults, and this chapter will focus on specific considerations, techniques, and approaches to care required by the older adult.