Hip fracture surgery in winter associated with worse outcomes

People who have hip fracture surgery in the winter months could be at greater risk of poorer outcomes, says a study published in Osteoporosis International.
Data from 2,779 people aged 60 years or over who had been discharged in 2000 after the surgery (technically known as osteosynthesis) was analysed. Winter surgeries were associated with impaired fracture healing.
“Our study demonstrates that wintertime primary osteosynthesis increases the risk of conversion surgeries,” the authors comment.
It is possible that there is an association between seasonal changes in vitamin D levels and impaired healing after surgery.
Arthritis Research UK is funding a trial that aims to reduce vitamin D deficiency caused by lack of sunlight in winter months in people aged over 70 years. The team involved is looking at if a constant intake of vitamin D throughout the year will lead to people having stronger bones and reduce the risk of fracture.

Image credit: Thomas

Subscribe to Arthritis Digest, the UK’s fastest growing arthritis magazine for all the latest arthritis news, reviews and celebrity interviews. You’ll know what your doctor is talking about, what new drugs are in the pipeline and be up to date on helpful products. Hard copy and digital versions both available. Click here for more information.