Plates and Nails - What Else is There in Fragility Care?

Description

In this informative presentation, Will Eardley, an orthopedic clinical lead and the representative for the National Hip Fracture Database (NHFD), discusses the importance of improving care for patients with fragility fractures. He introduces a panel of experts, including Antony Johansen and Xavier Griffin, who will share insights on research and practical steps towards enhancing patient treatment within the framework of the NHFD. Eardley emphasizes the collaborative nature of the program, which is built on national audits and best practices, and urges healthcare professionals of all levels—from trainees to experienced consultants—to get involved and contribute to patient care improvements.



Throughout the presentation, he shares personal anecdotes, highlighting innovative practices from other hospitals, such as performing echocardiograms for all fragility fracture patients upon admission, which sparked curiosity and discussions of potential best practices. Eardley's key message is that the focus should extend beyond surgical procedures—recognized as only a small part of overall patient care—to prioritize comprehensive approaches involving assessment, guidance, and multi-disciplinary team efforts.



He discusses the frameworks within which the NHFD operates, including the Falls and Fragility Fractures Audit Program (FFFAP), and stresses the importance of gathering relevant data to inform treatment decisions while minimizing administrative burdens. Eardley also points out opportunities for future improvement in care practices, encouraging collaboration and research to better address the complexities of fragility fracture management. He reinforces the idea that patients' needs can be better met through effective teamwork and innovative solutions that reach beyond the operating theater and into post-operative care areas, emphasizing the holistic management of fragility fractures.

DOI: 10.1302/3114-230152

Specialties