Hip fracture--challenges in prevention and management.

BACKGROUND

Hip fracture is a common "geriatric syndrome", presenting general practitioners with complex challenges in prevention and management. Hip fracture entails a high cost to both the individual and the community.

OBJECTIVE

This article reviews the management of hip fractures focussing on prevention and treatment. The aim of the review is to help the GP address risk factors for hip fracture, understand what happens to their patients while in the hospital "black box", and to care for their patients postfracture.

DISCUSSION

General practitioners have a key role in preventing hip fracture and optimising the ongoing care of patients who have suffered a fracture.