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Updated: Oct 6, 2025
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Method and Instrumented Fixture for Femoral Fracture Testing in a Sideways Fall-on-the-Hip Position
Published on: August 17, 2017
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Open lower extremity fractures in the geriatric population
Lisa G M Friedman1, Terri A Zachos2, Daniela Sanchez3
1Geisinger Medical Center, 100 N. Academy Ave., Danville, PA, 17822, USA. LGMFriedman@gmail.com.
Summary
Open lower extremity fractures in elderly patients present unique challenges, especially concerning wound healing. This study highlights increased morbidity risks and provides crucial prognostic data for geriatric fracture care.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Geriatric Medicine
- Trauma Surgery
Background:
- Open fractures in the elderly differ significantly from those in younger individuals.
- Geriatric patients face distinct challenges and outcomes with lower extremity open fractures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze outcomes of lower extremity open fractures in geriatric patients.
- To establish prognostic indicators for this specific population.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of patients over 65 with lower extremity open fractures.
- Inclusion criteria: documented wound healing issues, 6-month follow-up, or radiographic outcome.
- 64 geriatric patients (average age 76.23, 73.4% female) were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Fracture types varied, with ankle fractures being most common (n=23).
- Gustilo-Anderson classification showed a range of injury severities (Type 1: 14, Type 2: 32, Type 3A: 11, Type 3B: 6, Type 3C: 1).
- Outcomes included delayed healing (n=39), infection (n=3), amputation (n=3), chronic ulceration (n=2), and active drainage (n=4).
Conclusions:
- Open lower extremity fractures in the elderly are associated with high morbidity, particularly wound healing complications.
- Findings offer valuable prognostic insights for counseling geriatric patients.
- Informs postoperative wound surveillance and management strategies for this demographic.
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