Determining factors for the mortality following hip fractures

In this study 518 patients with hip fractures were followed up prospectively for an average of 3 years (range 2.5-3.5 years). On admission to hospital the patients were allocated to one of 4 social function groups according to their dependence on the social welfare system. The life expectancy was analysed at follow-up and found to be determined primarily by the patient's social dependence prior to fracture, and secondarily by the age of the patient. Other generally accepted determining factors were not found to have any significant influence on the survival rates.