The hip is a common area to sustain fracture, especially under conditions of osteoporosis. The patterns of fracture are typically femoral neck, intertrochanteric and subtrochanteric. Fractures of the femoral neck that are minimally displaced and intertrochanteric/subtrochanteric fractures can be treated by surgical repair by placement of fracture implants that will hold the fragment of bone together rigidly in a reduced position and will allow for immediate mobilization and, in most cases, weight bearing without restrictions. This is an important concept and a critical goal to achieve especially in the elderly since bed rest for even seemingly short periods of time can cause permanent debilitation and can lead to other life threatening complication such as decubitus ulcers (bed sores) and venous thrombosis (blood clots). In cases of femoral neck fracture in the elderly where the fracture is substantially displaced, a partial or total hip replacement is recommended due to the high risk of failed healing when surgical repair is attempted instead.
Partial and total hip replacement also allows for immediate mobilization with unrestricted weight bearing.