Orthopaedic problems in the elderly.

Orthopaedic problems affecting the elderly are discussed and related to basic bone and joint pathology. The treatment of these problems is outlined with a special call for the highest standards of medical and surgical care, by a multidisciplinary team. Early internal fixation of pathological fractures is recommended to allow early mobilisation. Total replacement arthroplasty similarly allows an early return to normal mobility in patients disabled by osteoarthrosis of a major weight bearing joint. Some aspects of the medical treatment of metabolic bone disease are also discussed.