Outcome following a second hip fracture

Hip fracture has a significant impact on medical resources and patient morbidity and mortality. Few patients admitted with a hip fracture are considered for prophylactic measures aimed at the reduction of further fracture risk. Currently, 10-13% of patients will later sustain a second hip fracture. In considering the possible role of prophylactic measures in the prevention of second hip fracture, we investigated whether second hip fracture has a significant further impact on patients' mobility and social independence. We also sought to identify a pattern to second hip fracture that may allow targeting of those patients who are most likely to benefit from currently available prophylactic measures. We undertook a retrospective review of 49 consecutive patients admitted with a second hip fracture between August 1999 and September 2000. Fewer patients maintained their ability to walk independently after the second fracture than did so after the first (53 and 91% respectively, P<0.0005). Following second hip fracture, patients' level of mobility determined their future social independence. Older patients and those with a history of multiple falls had a shorter time interval between fractures. Second hip fracture has a significant further impact on patients' mobility and social independence. Younger patients and those without a history of multiple falls are most likely to benefit from medical prophylaxis.