Description
In this presentation, Professor Ben Ollivere discusses current approaches to addressing the unsolved problems associated with hip fractures, particularly focusing on solutions related to prevention of re-fracture in patients. He introduces the demographics of hip fracture patients, highlighting their increasing expectations in terms of recovery and quality of life. Ollivere reviews existing literature, noting that while there are numerous studies on hip fractures, many of them are small, leading to a lack of practical solutions to prevent secondary fractures.
The presentation covers three potential interventions: vitamin D supplementation, bisphosphonates, and a novel procedure known as the LOEP (Local Enhancement of Bone) procedure. Ollivere discusses the significance of vitamin D deficiency in hip fracture patients and suggests that while vitamin D supplementation may improve quality of life, it does not significantly affect bone mineral density.
Moving to bisphosphonates, he references significant trials indicating that although they reduce overall secondary fracture risks, they do not adequately address the rates of second hip fractures.
The LOEP procedure emerges as a promising new technique demonstrated through pilot studies showcasing its potential to enhance local bone density, which may be crucial in preventing subsequent fractures. Ollivere concludes by addressing a currently ongoing large-scale clinical trial (the Restore study), aimed at evaluating the efficacy of the LOEP procedure. The talk encapsulates a significant aspect of orthopedic surgery focused on improving patient outcomes in hip fracture management.