Decreased volume of hip fractures observed during COVID-19 lockdown

Abstract

Introduction: The aim was to study the incidence and characteristics of fragility hip fractures admitted during COVID-19 lockdown. Materials and methods: We analysed socio-demographic and baseline characteristics of patients suffering fragility hip fractures between March 1st and May 1st 2020, period most affected by COVID-19 confinement measures. Cases (n = 64) were compared with controls (n = 172) from corresponding periods in 2018 and 2019. Poisson Generalised Linear Model regression analysis was performed to compare daily case counts, and LOESS curves compared time series. Results: No differences were found regarding age or gender distributions, pre-fracture living, ambulatory, functional or cognitive status. More patients in 2020 had a high-risk ASA score. Fewer cases [Reduction = 26% (95% CI 1–44%)] were admitted in 2020. The reduction seemed to correspond with confinement. Conclusions: Approximately, one quarter less fragility hip fractures were admitted to our hospital during lockdown. Patients’ baseline status and socio-demographic characteristics were similar.