Publication:

Proximal femur fractures - effect of preoperative mental status of patients on postoperative mobility of patients

Background In the elderly population, proximal femur fractures are most common which can result in increase of morbidity and mortality. Pre and postoperative mobility patterns, also depends upon the Mental Status of the patient. Incidence of Mental health disorders of patient can increases with age and co morbidities. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect and relationship of preoperative mental status, on postoperative mobility in proximal femur fracture patients. On null hypothesis; there exists no co-relation between pre-operative mental status on pre and postoperative mobility those had surgery for proximal femur fractures.

Methods This is a retrospective study, carried out during the period of 14th March, 2016 to 14th March, 2017 at BIRRD (T) Hospital. All the patients who underwent proximal femur fracture surgeries were included in the study. Patients were evaluated for Abbreviated Mental Score Test pre-operatively. Mobility patterns were before injury and after surgery evaluated in patients with proximal femur fractures. Postoperatively patients were followed up to one year.

Results 50 patients were included into the study, where 12 patients could not present to follow-up due to various reasons, thus we have complete data of 38 patients. There is significant reduction in mobility status of individuals i.e. from 6.18 (preoperative pre fracture mobility) to 5.36 (postoperative mobility). Average abbreviated mental test score is 7.55. There exists a correlation between the variables.

Conclusions Null hypothesis remains rejected. There is statistically significant relationship between the variables (pre and postoperative mobility, and abbreviated mental test score), which appears to be positive correlation.