Publication:

Evaluation of co-relation between hip fractures and vitamin D level

Background Hip fractures are devastating injuries that most often affect the elderly and have a tremendous impact on both the health care system and society in general. Approximately 97% occur in patients over 50 years of age. It has been a general belief that rickets and vitamin D deficiency are uncommon problems in India because of abundant sunshine. Hence the aim was to identify patients with hip fractures and to attain the vitamin D levels in these patients.

Methods The study was a descriptive type of study. Patients who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were included in the study. A total of 154 patients were included in the study. Patients were assessed clinically, with a thorough history and physical examination. The symptoms and signs elicited were recorded in a performa.

Results Neck of femur (NOF) was more common in female patients and intertrochanteric (IT) fracture was common in male patients. These fractures were mainly seen in the age group between 61 to 70 years of age for hip fractures. It was also noted that anaemia was prevalent in both male and female patients and the overall vitamin D deficiency was 76% of the total number of patients with more predominant (84.6%) in female patients.

Conclusions Treatment of the vitamin D deficiency reduces the chances of fall, morbidity and financial burden on the patient when fractures occur. The treatment of vitamin D deficiency will improve the quality of life overall. Hence the need for food fortification and supplementation in elderly Indian population.