Current and Future Landscape of Secondary Hip Fracture Prevention in the UK

Description

In this presentation, Andrew Duckworth from Edinburgh Orthopaedics discusses the current and future landscape of secondary hip fracture prevention in the UK, in collaboration with his colleague Ben Ollivere. Duckworth outlines the epidemiology of hip fractures, highlighting that approximately 80,000 occur annually in the UK, with a significant risk factor for secondary fractures seen in up to 50% of patients with prior fractures. He presents statistics indicating a 2% to 11% risk of a second hip fracture within a few years post-initial fracture, along with increased mortality rates following subsequent fractures.



The discussion shifts to the outcomes of hip fractures, emphasizing improvements in health-related quality of life and mortality rates due to interventions and best practices established by the WHITE group. Duckworth mentions ongoing challenges, particularly regarding the complications following hip fractures and the effectiveness of fracture liaison services in minimizing risks and improving patient outcomes.



Key points of the presentation include the importance of bone protection medications like bisphosphonates, which have shown effectiveness in reducing the risk of further fractures, while also addressing compliance issues in patients prescribed these treatments. Ultimately, Duckworth stresses the continued need for advancements in fracture prevention strategies and medication adherence to optimize outcomes for hip fracture patients, thus improving both short-term and long-term health metrics.

DOI: 10.1302/3114-221445

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