Older Adult Pelvic Fracture Treatment Options: An Overview, Selection, and Prognosis
================================================================================
Pelvic fractures, while uncommon, can pose a significant challenge for older adults due to weakened bones, often related to osteoporosis. These fractures can result from low-impact trauma, such as falls from standing height, and require careful management tailored to the elderly patient's overall health, bone quality, and mobility status.
In contrast, pelvic fractures in younger adults are more commonly the result of high-energy trauma, such as motor vehicle collisions or falls from a height. These injuries often involve complex fracture patterns, multiple organ damage, and significant hemorrhage due to the high impact forces involved.
Treatment options for older adults with pelvic fractures range from nonsurgical methods such as mobilization, pain relief, and osteoporosis medication to surgical intervention in more severe cases. Nonsurgical treatment options include physical therapy and the use of mobility aids such as crutches or a walking frame. Osteoporosis medication can help heal existing fractures and reduce the risk of subsequent fractures.
Doctors consider various factors when determining the best treatment approach, including preexisting health conditions, medications, anesthesia safety, mobility status, cognitive status, and nutritional status. A CT scan 10-12 days after mobilization is often recommended to check for further dislocations.
Older adults with pelvic fractures are at risk of long-term physical impairment and mortality compared to younger adults. Certain severe complications are more likely to affect older adults during recovery, such as bony fragments of the pelvis piercing the bladder, injury to the obturator nerve, and infection.
It's important to note that Medicare can help cover the costs of durable medical equipment and physical therapy following an injury like a pelvic fracture.
References:
- American Association of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS). (n.d.). Pelvic Fractures in Adults: Overview. Retrieved from https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/pelvic-fractures-in-adults-overview/
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS). (n.d.). Osteoporosis. Retrieved from https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/osteoporosis
- UpToDate. (2021). Pelvic fractures in adults. Retrieved from https://www.uptodate.com/contents/pelvic-fractures-in-adults
- Aging and longevity research is crucial for understanding the impact of pelvic fractures on older adults.
- Science continues to explore various therapies and treatments for chronic diseases like osteoporosis that contribute to fragile bones in older individuals.
- Workplace wellness programs can promote topics like fall prevention, which is vital for older adults' safety.
- Mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, can complicate recovery for older adults experiencing pelvic fractures.
- Men's health also encompasses bone health and managing conditions like osteoporosis.
- Skin care, particularly for elderly individuals, might involve strategies to prevent pressure ulcers, a possible complication following a pelvic fracture.
- In the context of lifestyle choices, regular exercise can help strengthen bones and reduce the risk of fractures.
- Fashion and beauty trends should consider the needs of older adults, such as mobility-friendly designs for footwear.
- A balanced diet, rich in calcium and vitamin D, plays a crucial role in maintaining bone health and healing from pelvic fractures.
- Technology advancements can improve the treatment and rehabilitation of pelvic fractures through innovative medical equipment.
- Medicare, along with personal finance planning, can aid in covering the costs associated with pelvic fractures and recovery.
- Women's health, too, includes understanding issues related to bone health and managing conditions that may lead to pelvic fractures.
- Chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes can increase the risk of pelvic fractures in older adults due to poor bone quality.
- In some cases, chronic kidney disease might impact the choice of medication during the treatment of pelvic fractures.
- Medication adherence, along with adopting a health-and-wellness lifestyle, can help achieve better outcomes for individuals recovering from pelvic fractures.
- Both aging parents and their pets may require special care during recovery from pelvic fractures, as some complications could affect travel and sports activities.
