295 Characteristics of Older Hip Fracture Adults Admitted to a Dublin Hospital

Abstract

Background: Hip fractures are common in older adults and are associated with increased mortality and morbidity resulting in medical and socioeconomic burden for healthcare system and patient alike. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on patients admitted to a Dublin hospital for hip fracture repair between October 2018 and February 2019. Data on sociodemo-graphic characteristics such as; gender; age; pre-admission residence; fracture history; bone protection medication use; pre-fracture mobility; discharge mobility and destination; length of stay and mortality rate was collected. Results: 50 patients admitted between 01/10/19 and 31/01/2019. 2:1 female to male. Average age 78 ranging from 48-93. 88% admitted from home. 44% had previous fractures. Vertebral (36%), wrist (23%) and pelvic (23%) most common fractures. 27% of these were on bone protection medication on admission. 41% were taking Calcium and Vit D or Vitamin D only. 70% of participants were independently mobile pre-fracture. 94% required some form of mobility aid on discharge. Te average length of stay was 32 days ranging from 2 to 160 days. 38% went home whilst 36% were discharged to rehabilitation. 88% were discharged on bone protection medication - 70% received IV Zoledronic acid as inpatients, 14% commenced Prolia 6 monthly injections and 4% on oral bisphosphonates. Mortality rate was 6% Conclusion: Hip fractures have a negative effect on a person's mobility. Whilst many guidelines for the assessment and treatment of osteoporosis recommend intervention be considered in men and women who have sustained a fragility fracture, it is clear from this study that an osteoporosis care gap exists and further work is required to better identify, assess and treat patients following their first fracture in the hope of reducing further fractures, particularly hip and vertebral fractures.