Undernutrition, Sarcopenia, and Frailty in Fragility Hip Fracture: Advanced Strategies for Improving Clinical Outcomes

Global epidemiology of lower limb fractures: Trends, burden, and projections from the GBD 2021 study

BACKGROUND

Lower limb fractures are a significant global public health issue, imposing considerable social and economic burdens. Despite their prevalence, comprehensive analyses of the global epidemiology of lower limb fractures remain scarce. This study aims to address this gap.

METHODS

Using data from the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD) 2021, we analyzed four types of lower limb fractures: fractures of foot bones excluding the ankle (FFB), hip fractures (FH), fractures of the patella, tibia or fibula, or ankle (FPTFA), and femur fractures excluding the femoral neck (FF), and conducted a detailed assessment of them.

RESULTS

FPTFA was the most burdensome fracture type, with Slovenia showing the highest age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR), and Saudi Arabia having the highest age-standardized prevalence rate (ASPR) and years lived with disability rate (ASYR). The burden of lower limb fractures increased with age, but FFB and FPTFA showed a "double peak" age distribution, with FFB most common in the 20-24 age group. Lower limb fractures were more prevalent in males among younger individuals and in females among older populations. From 1990 to 2021, the burden of lower limb fractures, excluding FH, decreased (EAPC <1), though the incidence of FF is projected to increase (EAPC = 0.14, 95 % CI 0.1-0.18) over the next decade.

CONCLUSION

Although the global burden of lower limb fractures, excluding FH, has decreased in recent years, vigilance is still needed. Given the projected rise in FF incidence over the next decade, preventive measures should be implemented early.

Acute pain trajectories in elderly patients with fragility hip fractures

BACKGROUND

Pain management for hospitalized elderly patients with fragility hip fractures (FHF) remains challenging. This study aims to distinguish acute pain trajectories in FHF patients that can inform personalized analgesia management.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective observational study of patients aged 65 and older with FHF at a Level I trauma center. The primary outcome was daily average pain assessed for five days post-injury using the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI). We used group-based trajectory modeling (GBTM) to distinguish acute pain trajectories. Then, factors and secondary outcomes (opioid use and hospital length of stay [LOS]) associated with more severe pain trajectories were identified.

RESULTS

We enrolled 100 consecutive patients with FHF between June 2022 and June 2023. We identified three distinct acute pain trajectories: minimal pain, subsiding pain, and persistent pain. Factors associated with more severe pain trajectories included higher initial pain on admission (OR 1.17, 95 % CI 1.02-1.36, P = 0.047), higher BMI (OR 1.15, 95 % CI 1.02-1.29, P = 0.021), and intertrochanteric fracture type (OR = 6.46, 95 % CI 1.49-27.98, P = 0.013). The persistent pain trajectory was significantly associated with 40 % more opioid use (P = 0.01) and a longer LOS (LOS ratio = 1.45, 95 % CI 1.21-1.74, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Acute pain in FHF patients can be classified into distinct trajectories, providing a basis for personalized pain management. More severe pain trajectories are associated with higher opioid use and longer length of hospital stay.

The implications of bioelectrical impedance vector analysis in older adults with hip fractures

OBJECTIVES

This study used bioelectrical impedance vector analysis to assess body composition in older adults with hip fractures, comparing results with reference populations.

STUDY DESIGN

This cross-sectional study included patients aged 65 years or more who had undergone surgery for hip fracture and baseline bioelectrical impedance analysis at 50 kHz. Using raw impedance data, bioelectrical impedance vector analysis was conducted, calculating phase angle and analyzing resistance (R) and reactance (Xc) relative to height (R/H and Xc/H) on RXc graphs.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Men and women were compared with reference populations using confidence ellipses. Individual vectors were plotted against 50 %, 75 %, and 95 % tolerance ellipses and compared with international references matched for age and body mass index and a young adult group, further differentiated by sarcopenia status.

RESULTS

Among 103 patients with hip fracture (24 men, 79 women), confidence ellipses showed significant differences from reference populations (P < 0.001), with reduced Xc and lower phase angle (men: 4.3 ± 1.5°; women: 3.8 ± 1.0°), consistent with higher R/H and lower Xc/H. Most vectors lay outside the 75 % and 95 % tolerance ellipses, primarily in the lower-right and upper-right quadrants, indicating body cell mass loss and water imbalance. Only 8.3 % of men and 12.7 % of women fell within the 75 % tolerance ellipse of community-dwelling older adults. Sarcopenic patients showed greater rightward displacement, indicating more severe muscle wasting and dehydration.

CONCLUSIONS

Older hip fracture patients showed a distinct pattern on bioelectrical impedance vector analysis indicating frailty and malnutrition. Bioelectrical impedance vector analysis may effectively screen for body composition changes and nutritional status, supporting timely, multidisciplinary interventions.

Systemic immune-inflammation index to albumin (SII/ALB) ratio as a novel dual-dimensional powerful predictor for hip fractures in elderly females with diabetes: a postmenopausal longitudinal cohort study

PURPOSE

Hip fracture is the most dangerous and potentially lethal fracture, described as "the last fracture of life" in older adults. Previous studies have shown that excessive immunoinflammatory response and nutrient deficiency may be involved. Nevertheless, a predictor for hip fracture risk that combines a thorough evaluation of immunoinflammatory with malnutritional conditions in postmenopausal women with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) remains scarce. This study explored the relationship between the SII/ALB ratio (SAR) and fragility fracture risk in postmenopausal older adults with T2DM.

METHODS

Between January 2014 and January 2021, a total of 509 postmenopausal female participants with T2DM were recruited from the Medical Record Database of the People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. Finally, 363 participants with an age median of 69.00 (64.00-75.00), were eligible for inclusion in this analysis. According to the statistical tertiles of the SAR, all participants were split into three groups: low-level (≤ 98.24, n = 121), moderate-level (98.24-157.25, n = 121), and high-level (≥ 157.25, n = 121). The participants were followed up for seven years, with a median follow-up time of 45.9 months (1389 person-years). The relationships between the SAR and a real-world fragility fracture event and an individualized future 10-year probability of major osteoporotic fracture (MOF) and hip fracture (HF) calculated by the fracture risk assessment tool (FRAX) were evaluated through Spearman's partial correlation analysis, restricted cubic spline (RCS) model, Cox proportional hazards regression model, and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. Furthermore, some indicators such as geriatric nutritional risk index (GNRI), prognostic nutritional index (PNI), and SII were also calculated and compared to their diagnostic efficacy and the clinical application value through the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis and the decision curve analysis (DCA), respectively.

RESULTS

Of the 363 participants, 69 suffered a real-world fragility fracture event (19%). Spearman's partial correlation analysis indicated that SAR was negatively related to femoral neck (FN) bone mineral density (BMD) (r = -0.108, P = 0.041) and total hip (TH) BMD (r = -0.118, P = 0.025), but not lumbar spine (LS) BMD (all Models P > 0.05); positively correlated with an individualized future 10-year probability of MOF (r = 0.136, P = 0.010) and HF (r = 0.139, P = 0.008) calculated by FRAX, especially in hip fracture risk. The RCS model demonstrated the relationship between the SAR and a fragility fracture endpoint event in a J-shaped dose-dependent manner (P for overall < 0.001, P for nonlinear = 0.866). Multivariate Cox regression analysis indicated that the SAR was positively associated with fragility fracture risk (P < 0.001). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that patients with higher levels of SAR had a greater probability of fragility fracture risk (log-rank, P < 0.0001). The ROC curve demonstrated an optimal SAR cut-off value of 146.209 with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.740, a sensitivity of 0.681, and a specificity of 0.701 (P < 0.001). According to the AUC values, the ROC curve analysis combined with the DCA illustrated that the diagnostic efficacy and the clinical application benefit ranked as follows: SAR > SII > PNI > GNRI, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Our findings show the SAR is a novel dual-dimensional powerful predictor for fragility fracture risk, especially hip fracture, and as an effective tool for developing fragility fracture prevention strategies in postmenopausal females with T2DM. Consequently, monitoring SAR levels in usual clinical practice to focus on immunoinflammatory and nutritional status to identify individuals at high risk of hip fracture and implement timely fracture interventions is particularly essential.

CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER

Not applicable.

A nomogram for predicting mortality risk in geriatric patients with hip fractures complicated by pneumonia: A multicenter study

Objectives

Pneumonia is a common perioperative complication in geriatric patients with hip fractures. This study aimed to analyze demographic characteristics, mortality rates, postoperative outcomes, and perioperative comorbidities, identify risk factors for mortality, and develop a nomogram for predicting the prognosis of these patients.

Methods

Data on patients hospitalized for arthroplasty for hip fractures from 2020 to 2023 at three hospitals were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were divided into the P group (patients with hip fractures complicated with pneumonia) and the C group (patients with hip fractures without pneumonia) and demographic characteristics, mortality, postoperative outcomes, and perioperative comorbidities of the patients were analyzed. Multiple logistic regression was then used to identify independent risk factors for inpatient mortality in the P group and a nomogram was constructed to predict inpatient mortality. The predictive performance of the nomogram was assessed using receiver operating characteristic curves, decision curve analysis, and calibration curves.

Results

A total of 311 patients participated in the study. Patients in the P group had longer hospitalization (p = 0.001), higher inpatient mortality (p < 0.001), higher mortality (30 days) (p < 0.001), and a poorer recovery of hip function (p < 0.001). Multiple logistic regression showed that age, BMI, total hip arthroplasty, diabetes, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were independent risk factors for inpatient mortality in the P group; these factors were incorporated in the nomogram. The C-index of the nomogram was 0.868 (95% CI: 0.802-0.933), and the C-index of internal bootstrapping validation was 0.851 (95% CI: 0.793-0.908), indicating the effectiveness of the nomogram in predicting patient prognosis.

Conclusions

Coinfection with pneumonia adversely affected both recovery of hip function and survival in geriatric patients with hip fractures. Age, BMI, total hip arthroplasty, diabetes, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were found to be independent risk factors for mortality in this patient population.

A nomogram to predict sarcopenia in middle-aged and older women: a nationally representative survey in China

Background

Sarcopenia is a disease characterized by losing muscle mass, strength, and function with age. Studies have shown that sarcopenia is generally higher in women than in men. Therefore, this study used the 2015 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) data to explore further the risk factors associated with sarcopenia in middle-aged and older Chinese women.

Methods

In this study, data from the 2015 CHARLS database were analyzed, comprising 7,805 eligible participants. Participants were categorized into either the sarcopenia group (n = 2,160) or the non-sarcopenia group (n = 5,645) based on the presence or absence of sarcopenia. Through the utilization of logistic regression analysis, multiple risk factors were identified. Additionally, the predictive value of these risk factors was assessed by applying receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Subsequently, a visual nomogram prediction model was developed by incorporating the identified risk factors into R4.1.2 software.

Results

Age, area, education, marriage, waist circumference, stroke, body pain, depression, and region may be closely related to Chinese women with sarcopenia. In addition, this study integrated these sarcopenia-related variables into a comprehensive index, and ROC analysis results showed that the AUC of the composite index was 0.738.

Conclusions

This study found that sarcopenia in Chinese women may be closely related to age, waist, education, marriage, area, stroke, physical pain, depression, and region. In addition, this study constructs a nomogram to help clinicians better screen potential female patients with sarcopenia.

The admission inflammatory biomarkers profile of elderly hip fractures and its association with one-year walking independence and mortality: a prospective study

PURPOSE

Immune response plays an important role in the regulation of elderly hip fracture. This study aims to analyze the relationship between systemic inflammatory markers including neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), and systemic inflammation response index (SIRI) and mortality and walking independence, providing valuable references for the postoperative management of geriatric hip fracture.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of prospective data on elderly patients who have undergone hip surgery and have been followed for at least one year. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and the optimum cutoff value were calculated. Univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used to identify the associations between admission four systemic inflammatory markers and one-year mortality and locomotion recovery.

RESULTS

During the study period, respiratory disease was the most common cause of death, followed by cardiovascular disease. Multivariate analysis identified NLR (OR, 1.13; 95%CI: 1.09-1.17), SIRI(OR, 1.18; 95%CI: 1.08-1.28) and advanced age (OR, 1.06; 95%CI: 1.01-1.11) as independent risk factors for one-year mortality. In addition, 89 (rate, 31.8%) survivors had poor walking independence within one year. NLR (OR, 1.37; 95%CI: 1.26-1.50), SII(OR, 1.00; 95%CI: 1.001-1.003), SIRI(OR, 1.36; 95%CI: 1.18-1.57) and advanced age (OR, 1.08; 95%CI: 1.02-1.13) were associated with postoperative locomotion recovery.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, admission NLR and SIRI are correlated with a high risk of one-year walking independence and mortality, providing a basis for the clinical management of geriatric hip fractures.

Handgrip strength as a predictor of 1‑year mortality after hip fracture surgery in the Colombian Andes Mountains

Hip fracture is a public health problem recognized worldwide and a potentially catastrophic threat for older persons, even carrying a demonstrated excess of mortality. Handgrip strength (HGS) has been identified as a predictor of different outcomes (mainly mortality and disability) in several groups with hip fracture.

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to determine the association between low HGS and 1-year mortality in a cohort of older patients over 60 years old with fragility hip fractures who underwent surgery in the Colombian Andes Mountains.

METHODS

A total of 126 patients (median age 81 years, women 77%) with a fragility hip fracture during 2019-2020 were admitted to a tertiary care hospital. HGS was measured using dynamometry upon admission, and data about sociodemographic, clinical and functional, laboratory, and surgical intervention variables were collected. They were followed up until discharge. Those who survived were contacted by telephone at one, three, and 12 months. Bivariate, multivariate, and Kaplan-Meier analyses with survival curves were performed.

RESULTS

The prevalence of low HGS in the cohort was 71.4%, and these patients were older, had poorer functional and cognitive status, higher comorbidity, higher surgical risk, time from admission to surgery > 72 h, lower hemoglobin and albumin values, and greater intra-hospital mortality at one and three months (all p < 0.01). Mortality at one year in in patients with low HGS was 42.2% and 8.3% in those with normal HGS, with a statistically significant difference (p = 0.000). In the multivariate analysis, low HGS and dependent gait measured by Functional Ambulation Classification (FAC) were the factors affecting postoperative 1-year mortality in older adults with hip fractures.

CONCLUSION

In this study of older people with fragility hip fractures, low HGS and dependent gait were independent predictive markers of 1-year mortality.

Risk-stratified lifetime risk and incidence of hip fracture and falls in middle-aged and elderly Chinese population: The China health and retirement longitudinal study

Background

Hip fracture (HF) is one of the most prevalent orthopedic conditions among the elderly, with falls being the primary risk factor for HF. With the surge of aged population, China is facing great challenges from HF and falls. However, a comprehensive long-term observation of risk factors affecting HF and falls and their association are little reported at a national level.

Methods

The longitudinal cohort was established using the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) data from 2011 to 2018. The incidence density and multi-risk-stratified lifetime risk (up to 90 years of age) of falls and HF were studied at index ages of 50, 60, and 70, as well as the lifetime risk stratified by six regions in China, based on the modified Kaplan-Meier method with Statistical Analysis System (SAS).

Results

This study identified 17 705 subjects aged 50-89. The incidence density of falls was 65.07 and 47.53 per 1000 person-years in women and men, respectively. The incidence density of HF was also higher in women at 5.58 per 1000 person-years than in men at 4.88. By age 50, the lifetime risk of experiencing a HF was 18.58 % for women and 13.72 % for men. Vision and hearing abilities were significantly related to the lifetime risk of both falls and HF. Obesity-related factors presented age-relevant relationships with lifelong risks. Lack of naps, poor lower limb strength, and physical capabilities were indicative of HF risk. The north-western region of China had the lowest lifetime risk of falls but highest risk of HF, while other regions showed a consistent trend between falls and HF.

Conclusion

The aging population worldwide faces a considerable risk of falls and HF. Several risk factors were identified in this study using a Chinese population, relating to disease history, lifestyle habits, health status and physical function, and the risks differed among six regions in China. Future precautionary management programs, as well as patient self-awareness are necessary for improving the prevention of falls and HF to reduce their incidence in the aging population.

The translational potential of this article

With the greatest aged population worldwide, China faces the unparalleled challenge on public health. The study poses the lifetime risk of hip fracture and falls stratified by multiple risk factors in people from 45 to 90 in a national scale, which would shed a light on the early and continuous prevention of such injury.

Developing a Nomogram-Based Prediction Model for Malnutrition Risk in Preoperative Elderly Patients with Hip Fracture

Objective

To evaluate the risk factors contributing to preoperative malnutrition in elderly patients with hip fractures.

Methods

The study retrospectively analysed clinical data from 182 elderly patients aged 60 years or older with hip fractures. Nutritional status was assessed according to the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition diagnostic criteria, and risk factors associated with malnutrition were identified through univariate and logistic regression analyses. Based on the findings, a nomogram was developed, and a calibration curve model was constructed. The predictive performance of the model was evaluated using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Finally, the model was validated using an independent cohort of 78 patients.

Results

Data analysis revealed that among the 182 elderly patients with hip fractures, 76 were men and 106 were women, with a mean age of 75.77 ± 8.66 years. The fractures included 135 femoral neck fractures and 47 intertrochanteric fractures. Malnutrition was identified in 39.01% (71/182) of the patients. Independent risk factors for malnutrition included age, body mass index, the number of comorbidities, haemoglobin level and serum albumin level. A nomogram model incorporating these indicators was developed, demonstrating robust predictive performance, with an area under the ROC curve of 0.886 (95% confidence interval: 0.809-0.962).

Conclusion

It is anticipated that the proposed model will serve as a valuable tool for the timely and accurate clinical identification of malnutrition risk in elderly patients with hip fractures.

Lessons learned from a combined, personalized lifestyle intervention in hospitalized patients at risk for sarcopenia: a feasibility study

PURPOSE

To examine the feasibility of a combined, personalized exercise and nutrition intervention in hospitalized patients at risk of sarcopenia.

METHODS

The study is part of the FITFOOD randomized controlled trial. Eligible patients were randomized into two groups: receiving a personalized nutrition and exercise intervention, or receiving usual care. The intervention entailed a high-protein diet with daily protein supplementation combined with functional training with strength and aerobic exercises. Feasibility was assessed using quantitative data, such as recruitment rate, and qualitative data retrieved from focus group and individual semi-structured interviews.

RESULTS

In total, 14 out of 115 eligible patients participated. The recruitment rate was 12%, and the dropout rate was 50% (7 out of 14 participants). Patients at risk for sarcopenia found it difficult to be involved in a lifestyle intervention, because they were often preoccupied with their recovery, had little interest in changing their diet or level of exercise, and were often unable to participate fully due to health issues and mobility difficulty.

CONCLUSIONS

The evaluated combined, personalized lifestyle intervention had limited feasibility in hospitalized patients at risk for sarcopenia, with low recruitment and high dropout rates. The current lifestyle intervention might be too challenging for this vulnerable population.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The trial associated with this feasibility study was pre-registered on ClinicalTrials.gov under the registration number NCT05413616 on 07 June 2022.

Gabapentinoids and Risk of Hip Fracture

Importance

The increased use of gabapentinoids has been most pronounced in older people who are also susceptible to hip fractures.

Objective

To investigate the overall association between gabapentinoids and the risk of hip fractures and the stratified association across age groups, frailty status, and history of chronic kidney disease.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This was a case-case-time-control study in patients hospitalized for hip fracture in Victoria, Australia, between March 1, 2013, and June 30, 2018, with at least 1 prescription for a gabapentinoid before fracture. Conditional logistic regression was used to estimate the odds ratio (OR) and 95% CI for gabapentinoid dispensing in the index (1-60 days prefracture) compared with the reference (121-180 days prefracture) period. To adjust for the underlying time trend in gabapentinoid use, each index case was matched with up to 5 controls, selected from future cases of the same age and sex. Subgroup analyses were conducted in subgroups with or without chronic kidney disease (CKD), frailty scores less than 5, and frailty scores 5 and above. Frailty was computed using the Hospital Frailty Risk Score (HFRS). Data were analyzed from November 2023 to April 2024.

Exposure

Gabapentinoids (pregabalin or gabapentin).

Main Outcome and Measure

Hip fracture.

Results

Of 28 293 patients hospitalized for hip fractures, 2946 (1752 [59.5%] aged ≥80 years; 2099 [71.2%] female) were dispensed a gabapentinoid before hip fracture. Gabapentinoid dispensing was associated with increased odds of hip fractures (OR, 1.96; 95% CI, 1.66-2.32). After adjusting for the exposure-time trend and concomitant use of other central nervous system medications, the odds of hip fractures remained elevated (OR, 1.30; 95% CI, 1.07-1.57). The association between gabapentinoid dispensing and hip fracture was higher in patients with HFRS 5 and above (OR, 1.75; 95% CI, 1.31-2.33) and CKD (OR, 2.41; 95% CI, 1.65-3.52).

Conclusions and relevance

In this case-case-time-control study of Australian residents hospitalized for hip fracture, gabapentinoid use was associated with an increased risk of hip fractures, especially in patients who were frail or had chronic kidney disease. In addition to the known risk associated with kidney impairment, frailty status may be an important risk factor when considering use of gabapentinoids.

Nutritional Indicators of Bone Nonunion: A Systematic Review

Background/Objectives: Bone nonunion remains a clinical challenge in orthopedic surgery with significant impacts on mental and physical wellbeing for patients. There are several previously established risk factors of nonunion that are connected to nutrition, but this has yet to be substantially explored. This review seeks to assess all studies that present associations between nutrition and nonunion to understand the potential for clinical relevance in nonunion prevention. Methods: Case-control and cohort studies comparing nonunion risk based on nutritional factors were gathered through PubMed in July 2024. Data were extracted with dual verification through Covidence and assessed for bias using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Results: A total of 21 studies were included in this literature review. Vitamin D deficiency was a significant risk factor of nonunion in six studies and not significant in six other studies. Albumin was significant in three of the five studies addressing this lab value. Iron deficiency anemia was significant in a study assessing its impact on nonunion. Calcium was not significant in the one study mentioned. ICD-10-coded malnutrition was significant in one of the two studies. Sarcopenia, nutritional care plans, and dietitian-diagnosed malnutrition were statistically significant clinical indicators for predicting nonunion, but food insecurity was insignificant. Conclusions: Vitamin D, calcium, albumin, iron deficiency anemia, sarcopenia, and clinically diagnosed malnutrition have all been associated with an increased risk of nonunion in observational studies and should be considered when preventing nonunion development.

Nutritional Status Impact on Hip Fracture Patients in a Rural Environment

(1) Background: Hip fractures are highly prevalent traumatic events with significant functional consequences, particularly among the older population. These fractures are associated with increased mortality, postoperative complications, and functional dependence. Medical and nutritional factors such as malnutrition and sarcopenia are crucial for predicting functional outcomes and mortality in these patients. This study aimed to assess the nutritional status, vitamin D levels, and sarcopenia, as well as their relationship with mortality, mean hospital stay, and 30-day-readmission rate, in patients with hip fracture who underwent surgery in a rural hospital setting. (2) Methods: A longitudinal retrospective study involving 124 patients who underwent hip fracture surgery in 2021 was conducted. Sociodemographic, surgical, and nutritional data, including vitamin D, albumin, and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels, were collected. (3) Results: The average age of the sample was 89.1 years, with a postoperative 30-day-mortality rate of 8.1% and an average hospital stay of 10.4 days. Vitamin D deficiency was present in 79.7% of patients, and a high prevalence of malnutrition was indicated by low albumin and elevated BUN levels. Elevated BUN levels and low vitamin D levels were associated with higher mortality. (4) Conclusions: Adequate nutritional assessment in patients with hip fracture is vital for identifying the risks of complications and mortality. Understanding the current nutritional status and its associated complications will aid in developing strategies to improve health and reduce complications in the future.

Feeding Assistance Skill Score: development and verification of reliability and validity

PURPOSE

Feeding assistance should be safe and improve the assisted individual's ability to feed, yet objective tools for evaluating these skills are lacking. This study focuses on developing a tool for assessing feeding assistance skills.

METHODS

A group consisting of 25 experts employed the Delphi method to achieve a consensus on the essential items necessary for assessing feeding assistance skills. Subsequently, a draft score using a three-point scale was developed. To test the reliability of the draft scores, a group of 20 patients and 20 nurses was matched to record a meal assistance scene, which were independently evaluated by three raters. We computed the AC1 statistic to assess both intra- and inter-rater reliability, and further examined correlations between the Feeding Assistance Skill Score (FASS) scores and outcome items to verify validity.

RESULTS

Initially, an 18-item draft score was generated using the Delphi method. Subsequently, seven items were omitted from the intra- or inter-rater reliability analysis. Furthermore, after discussion, researchers removed one item that assessed food cognition, because the agreement score between the two items was 91%. Finally, the 10-item FASS was developed, showing a correlation with dietary intake upon validation.

CONCLUSIONS

We successfully developed a scoring system for peer evaluation of feeding assistance skills. Future studies should aim to validate the FASS. The implementation of the FASS aims to assess the effectiveness of feeding assistance training and care quality, potentially improving safety and satisfaction for those receiving feeding assistance.

Prognostic Factors of Hip Fracture in Elderly: A Systematic Review

The hip fracture causes significant disabilities in many elderly people. Many studies around the world have identified various risk factors for the hip fracture. The aim of this study was to systematically investigate the risk factors of hip fractures. This study is a systematic review of risk factors for hip fractures. All published papers in English and Persian languages on patients in Iran and other countries between 2002 - 2022 were examined. The search strategy used keywords matching the mesh, including : predictors, hip fracture, and disability. Articles were selected from international databases (PubMed, Proquest ,Web of Sience, Scopus, Google scholar and Persian(Sid,Magiran), and the Newcastle Ottawa Scale was used to assess the risk of bias. The study has identified several factors that were significantly correlated with the risk of hip fracture, including age, cigarette and alcohol consumption, visual and hearing problems, low BMI levels, history of falling, weakness, and diseases such as stroke, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, arthritis, diabetes, dementia, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, liver and kidney diseases, bone density, osteoporosis, vertebral fracture, and hyperthyroidism. However, the study did not find any significant correlations between the consumption of calcium and vitamin D, history of fractures, cognitive disorders, schizophrenia, and household income, and the risk of hip fracture. The results of this study reveal the determining role of some risk factors in hip fracture in older persons. Therefore, it is recommended that health policy makers provide the possibility of early intervention for some changeable factors.

Matters We Metric Vs. Metrics that Matter

Introduction

Geriatric fracture is a pressing global health issue, marked by elevated mortality and morbidity rates and escalating health care costs. The evolving health care system from fee-for-service to quality-based reimbursement has led to externally driven reward and reimbursement systems that may not account for the complexity of caring for older adults with fracture.

Significance

The aim of this review is to highlight the need for a shift towards meaningful metrics that impact geriatric fracture care and to issue a call to action for all medical societies to advocate for national reimbursement and ranking systems that focus on metrics that truly matter.

Results

Traditional metrics, while easier to capture, may not necessarily represent high quality care and may even have unintentional adverse consequences. For example, the focus on reducing length of stay may lead to older patients being discharged too early, without adequately addressing pain, constipation, or delirium. In addition, a focus on mortality may miss the opportunity to deliver compassionate end-of-life care. Existing geriatric fracture care metrics have expanded beyond traditional metrics to include assessment by geriatricians, fracture prevention, and delirium assessments. However, there is a need to further consider and develop patient-focused metrics. The Age-Friendly Health Initiative (4 Ms), which includes Mobility, Medication, Mentation, and what Matters is an evidence-based framework for assessing and acting on critical issues in the care of older adults. Additional metrics that should be considered include an assessment of nutrition and secondary fracture prevention.

Conclusion

In the realm of geriatric fracture care, the metrics currently employed often revolve around adherence to established guidelines and are heavily influenced by financial considerations. It is crucial to shift the paradigm towards metrics that truly matter for geriatric fracture patients, recognizing the multifaceted nature of their care and the profound impact these fractures have on their lives.

A retrospective evaluation of individual thigh muscle volume disparities based on hip fracture types in followed-up patients: an AI-based segmentation approach using UNETR

Background

Hip fractures are a common and debilitating condition, particularly among older adults. Loss of muscle mass and strength is a common consequence of hip fractures, which further contribute to functional decline and increased disability. Assessing changes in individual thigh muscles volume in follow-up patients can provide valuable insights into the quantitative recovery process and guide rehabilitation interventions. However, accurately measuring anatomical individual thigh muscle volume can be challenging due to various, labor intensive and time-consuming.

Materials and Methods

This study aimed to evaluate differences in thigh muscle volume in followed-up hip fracture patients computed tomography (CT) scans using an AI based automatic muscle segmentation model. The study included a total of 18 patients at Gyeongsang National University, who had undergone surgical treatment for a hip fracture. We utilized the automatic segmentation algorithm which we have already developed using UNETR (U-net Transformer) architecture, performance dice score = 0.84, relative absolute volume difference 0.019 ± 0.017%.

Results

The results revealed intertrochanteric fractures result in more significant muscle volume loss (females: -97.4 cm3, males: -178.2 cm3) compared to femoral neck fractures (females: -83 cm3, males: -147.2 cm3). Additionally, the study uncovered substantial disparities in the susceptibility to volume loss among specific thigh muscles, including the Vastus lateralis, Adductor longus and brevis, and Gluteus maximus, particularly in cases of intertrochanteric fractures.

Conclusions

The use of an automatic muscle segmentation model based on deep learning algorithms enables efficient and accurate analysis of thigh muscle volume differences in followed up hip fracture patients. Our findings emphasize the significant muscle loss tied to sarcopenia, a critical condition among the elderly. Intertrochanteric fractures resulted in greater muscle volume deformities, especially in key muscle groups, across both genders. Notably, while most muscles exhibited volume reduction following hip fractures, the sartorius, vastus and gluteus groups demonstrated more significant disparities in individuals who sustained intertrochanteric fractures. This non-invasive approach provides valuable insights into the extent of muscle atrophy following hip fracture and can inform targeted rehabilitation interventions.

Effect of Comprehensive Rehabilitation Training Based on Balance Function on Postoperative Recovery and Function of Hip Fracture in the Elderly: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Introduction

In China, the proportion of the elderly population is gradually increasing, followed by the increasing medical demands of elderly patients. Hip fracture is a common fracture in the elderly. The elderly are prone to serious postoperative complications, resulting in failure to restore normal hip function, which seriously affects patients' quality of life and further increases their mortality rate. Thus, hip fracture represents a remarkable public health issue within the realm of geriatric medical care.

Significance

This study systematically evaluated the impact of comprehensive rehabilitation training, with a focus on balance function, on elderly individuals with hip fractures' postoperative recovery and functional outcomes.

Result

Results showed a significant difference in BBS scores favoring comprehensive rehabilitation training based on balance function over conventional intervention. Similarly, AM-PAC scores favored the balance-focused training. TUTG meta-analysis indicated its adoption in comprehensive rehabilitation training. FIM scores showed improvement with balance-focused training. Harris score meta-analysis also favored this approach. A funnel plot analysis revealed potential publication bias, likely due to study heterogeneity and limited publications.

Conclusions

In conclusion, comprehensive rehabilitation training centered around balance function displayed clinical efficacy in enhancing postoperative hip joint function in elderly hip fracture patients. This approach improved balance, coordination, and posture control, facilitating lower limb function recovery and overall prognosis. It holds promise as a valuable treatment approach.

Phase Angle as a Predictor of Mortality in Older Patients with Hip Fracture

The aim of our study is to determine if there is an association between phase angle obtained by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) and mortality in older patients with fragility hip fractures. A prospective study of patients over 65 years old and hospitalized with a diagnosis of hip fracture was conducted. BIA was performed 24 to 48 h after surgery. Mortality was recorded, and the optimal phase angle cut-off value for predicting mortality was determined by using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. A total of 262 patients were included. Of the patients studied, 10 (3.8%), 21 (8%), 39 (14.9%) and 53 (20.2%) died at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after surgery, respectively. The phase angle cut-off for mortality at 12 months was 4.05° in women and 4.65° in men. A total of 94 patients (35.9%) were considered to have a low phase angle. After adjustment for possible confounders, mortality in patients with a low phase angle was 5.1 times higher at 1 month, 3.1 times higher at 3 months, 2.9 times higher at 6 months, and 2.8 times higher at 12 months. Phase angle is associated with prognosis in patients admitted for hip fracture regardless of age and comorbidities and can be positioned as a prognostic tool for mortality at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months.

Trends in hip fracture rates in spain from 2001 to 2018

The present study includes the longest period of analysis with the highest number of hip fracture episodes (756,308) described in the literature for Spain. We found that the age-adjusted rates progressively decreased from 2005 to 2018. We believe that this is significant because it may mean that measures such as prevention and treatment of osteoporosis, or programs promoting healthy lifestyles, have had a positive impact on hip fracture rates.

PURPOSE

To describe the evolution of cases and rates of hip fracture (HF) in patients 65 years or older in Spain from 2001 to 2018 and examine trends in adjusted rates.

METHODS

Retrospective, observational study including patients ≥65 years with acute HF. Data from 2001 to 2018 were obtained from the Spanish National Record of the Minimum Basic Data Set of the Ministry of Health. We analysed cases of HF, crude incidence and age-adjusted rates by sex, length of hospital stay (LOS) and in-hospital mortality, and used joinpoint regression analysis to explore temporal trends.

RESULTS

We identified 756,308 HF cases. Mean age increased 2.5 years, LOS decreased 4.5 days and in-hospital mortality was 5.5-6.5%. Cases of HF increased by 49%. Crude rate per 100,000 was 533.3 (95% confidence interval [CI], 532.1-534.5), increasing 14.0% (95%CI, 13.7-14.2). Age-adjusted HF incidence rate increased by 6.9% from 2001 (535.7; 95%CI, 529.9-541.5) to 2005 (572.4; 95%CI, 566.7-578.2), then decreased by 13.3% until 2017 (496.1, 95%CI, 491.7-500.6). Joinpoint regression analysis indicated a progressive increase in age-adjusted incidence rates of 1.9% per year from 2001 to 2005 and a progressive decrease of -1.1% per year from 2005 to 2018. A similar pattern was identified in both sexes.

CONCLUSIONS

Crude incidence rates of HF in Spain in persons ≥65 years from 2001 to 2018 have gradually increased. Age-adjusted rates show a significant increase from 2001 to 2005 and a progressive decrease from 2005 to 2018.

Nutritional status as independent prognostic factor of outcome and mortality until five years after hip fracture: a comprehensive prospective study

We determined the prognostic value of nutritional status for outcome after hip fracture. Nutritional status was a strong independent prognostic factor for clinical outcome and 5-year mortality. Physical function showed incomplete recovery. Elderly care should focus on prevention already before hip fracture.

PURPOSE

To determine the prognostic value of nutritional status in hip fracture patients for multiple clinical and functional outcomes over 6 months, and for new fractures and survival over 5 years post-fracture.

METHODS

We included 152 well-characterized subjects (age 55+ years) with a hip fracture from a previously published randomized controlled trial. Nutritional status was appraised using the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA). Multivariable linear, logistic and Cox regression models were fitted, adjusted for age, sex, ASA score, group and additional prognostic covariates identified in backward regression models.

RESULTS

At baseline, impaired nutritional status was significantly associated with physical disability, depression, impaired cognition and lower quality of life. Prospective analyses showed that impaired baseline nutritional status was an independent prognostic factor for postoperative complications (OR 2.00, 95%CI 1.01-3.98, p = 0.047), discharge location from hospital (home vs. rehabilitation clinic, OR 0.41, 95%CI 0.18-0.98, p = 0.044), hospital readmission (OR 4.59, 95%CI 1.70-12.4, p = 0.003) and total length of hospital stay (HR of being discharged: 0.63, 96%CI 0.44-0.89, p = 0.008), as well as for 5-year mortality (HR 3.94, 95%CI 1.53-10.2, p = 0.005), but not for risk of new fractures (5y-HR 0.87, 95%CI 0.34-2.24, p = 0.769). Curves of physical disability over time showed that the three nutritional status categories followed almost parallel trajectories from baseline until 6 months after hip fracture, without complete recovery and even with further deterioration in malnourished subjects from 3 to 6 months post-fracture.

CONCLUSION

As baselline nutritional status is a strong independent prognostic factor for clinical outcome after hip fracture, affecting even five-year survival, elderly health care should focus on prevention and identification of at-risk individuals already before hip fracture.

Combined nutritional status and activities of daily living disability is associated with one-year mortality after hip fracture surgery for geriatric patients: a retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to explore the association combined nutritional status and activities of daily living disability with all-cause mortality of older adults with hip fracture in the first year after hospitalization.

METHODS

This is a single-center retrospective cohort study in older adults with hip fracture patients. Clinical data and laboratory results were collected from electronic medical record system of our hospital (2014-2021). The endpoint of this study was all-cause mortality in the first year after hospitalization.

RESULTS

A total of 303 older adults were enrolled and all-cause mortality was 21.8%. The study population was categorized by CONUT score. Patients in CONUT score 5-12 had a higher age, ASA status, CRP and creatinine level, more patients with history of fracture, pneumonia and delirium, meanwhile, lower BMI and ADL score, lower hemoglobin, lymphocyte, total protein, albumin, triglyceride, total cholesterol and one year survival than those in CONUT score 0-4 (all P < 0.05). Multivariable Cox analysis showed that BMI, ADL score and CONUT score were independent risk factors for all-cause mortality of hip fracture in older adults (HR (95% CI):2.808(1.638, 4.814), P < 0.001; 2.862(1.637, 5.003), P < 0.001; 2.322(1.236, 4.359), P = 0.009, respectively). More importantly, the combined index of CONUT and ADL score had the best predictive performance based on ROC curve (AUC 0.785, 95% CI: 0.734-0.830, P < 0.0001). Kaplan-Meier survival curves for all-cause mortality showed that patients with CONUT score increase and ADL score impairment had a higher mortality rate at 1 year compared to CONUT score decrease and ADL score well (Log Rank χ2 = 45.717, P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Combined CONUT and ADL score is associated with one-year mortality after hip fracture surgery for geriatric patients.

Nutrition, Vitamin D, and Calcium in Elderly Patients before and after a Hip Fracture and Their Impact on the Musculoskeletal System: A Narrative Review

Hip fractures are a major health issue considerably impacting patients' quality of life and well-being. This is particularly evident in elderly subjects, in which the decline in bone and muscle mass coexists and predisposes individuals to fall and fracture. Among interventions to be implemented in hip fractured patients, the assessment and management of nutritional status is pivotal, particularly in subjects older than 65. Nutrition plays a central role in both primary and secondary preventions of fracture. An adequate protein intake improves muscle mass and strength and the intestinal absorption of calcium. Other nutrients with recognized beneficial effects on bone health are calcium, vitamins D, K, and C, potassium, magnesium, folate, and carotenoids. With reference to calcium, results from longitudinal studies showed that the consumption of dairy foods has a protective role against fractures. Moreover, the most recent systematic reviews and meta-analyses and one umbrella review demonstrated that the combination of calcium and vitamin D supplementation significantly reduces hip fracture risk, with presumed higher efficacy in older and institutionalized subjects. Owing to these reasons, the adequate intake of calcium, vitamin D, protein, and other macro and micronutrients has been successfully implemented in the Fracture Liaison Services (FLSs) that represent the most reliable model of management for hip fracture patients. In this narrative review, papers (randomized controlled trials, prospective and intervention studies, and systematic reviews) retrieved by records from three different databases (PubMed, Embase, and Medline) have been analyzed, and the available information on the screening, assessment, and management of nutritional and vitamin D status and calcium intake in patients with hip fractures is presented along with specific prevention and treatment measures.

AtoG: A simple score to predict complications and death after hip fractures, in line with the comprehensive geriatric assessment

INTRODUCTION

Proximal Femur Fractures (PFFs) are a significant public health issue and occur in the context of global frailty and aging. Recent literature identifies new patient-related prognostic factors that focus on socioeconomic environment, patient well-being, or nutrition status. Specific scores have been developed, but in most cases, they fail to be in line with the comprehensive geriatric assessment, or do not assess the newly identified prognostic factors, contain multitude collinearities, or are too complex to be used in the daily practice. Hypothesis A comprehensive score with equal representation of the patient's dimensions does at least as good as the Charlson score (CCI), to predict complications and mortality.

OBJECTIVE

To develop a new comprehensive prognostic score, predicting inpatient complications and mortality up to 5-year after PFF.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The patients treated surgically for PFF on a native hip, between 2005 and 2017 were selected from a French national database. The variables were the gender, age, the type of treatment (osteosynthesis or arthroplasty), and the CCI. The outcomes were the medical and surgical complications as inpatient and the mortality (up to 5-year). Variables were grouped into dimensions with similar clinical significance, using a Principal Component Analysis, for instance, bedsores and malnutrition. The dimensions were tested for 90-day mortality and complications, in regressions models. Two scores were derived from the coefficients: SCOREpond (strict ponderation), and SCORE (with loose ponderation: 1 point/risk factors, -1 point/protective factors). Calibration, discrimination (ROC curves with Area Under Curves AUC), and cross-validation were assessed for SCOREpond, SCORE, and CCI.

RESULTS

Analyses were performed on 7756 fractures. The factorial analysis identified seven dimensions: age; brain-related conditions (including dementia): 1738/7756; severe chronic conditions (for instance, organ failures) 914/7756; undernutrition: 764/7756; environment, including social issues or housing difficulties: 659/7756; associated trauma: 814/7756; and gender. The seven dimensions were selected for the prognostic score named AtoG (ABCDEFG, standing for Age, Brain, Comorbidities, unDernutrition, Environment, other Fractures, Gender). The median survival rate was 50.8 months 95% CI [49-53]. Anaemia and urologic complications were the most prevalent medical complications (1674/7756, 21%, and 1109/7756, 14.2%). A total of 149/7756 patients (1.9%) developed a mechanical inpatient complication (fractures or dislocations), with a slightly higher risk for arthroplasties. The AUCs were 0.69, 0.68, and 0.67 for AtoGpond, AtoG, and CCI, respectively, for 90-day mortality, and 0.64, 0.63, and 0.56 for complications. Compared to patients with AtoG=0, Hazard Ratios for 90-day mortality were 2.3 95% CI [1.7-2.9], 4.2 95% CI [3.1-5.4], 6 95% CI [4.5-8.1], 8.3 95% CI [6.5-12.9], and 13.7 95% CI [8-24], from AtoG=1 to AtoG≥5, respectively (p<10-4); the 90-day survival decreased by 5%/point, roughly. The sur-risk of mortality associated with AtoG was up to 5-year: HR=1.51 (95% CI [1.46-1.55], p<10-4). Compared to AtoG=0, from AtoG=1 to AtoG≥5, the pooled Odd Ratios were 1.14 95% CI [1.06-1.2], 1.53 95% CI [1.4-1.7], 2.17 95% CI [1.9-2.4], 2.9 95% CI [2.4-3.4], and 4.9 95% CI [3.3-7.4] for any complication (p<10-4).

CONCLUSION

AtoG is a multidimensional score in line with the concept of comprehensive geriatric assessment. It had good discrimination and performance in predicting 90-day mortality and complications. Performances were as good as CCI for 90-day mortality, and better than it for the complications.

LEVEL OF PROOF

IV; retrospective cohort study.

Geriatric proximal femur fracture updates

Proximal femur fractures in the aging population present a variety of challenges. Physiologically, patients incurring this fracture are typically frail, with significant medical comorbidities, yet require early surgical treatment to restore mobility to prevent deterioration. Socioeconomically, the occurrence of a fragility fracture may be the beginning of the loss of independence, and the burdens of rehabilitation and support are borne by the individual patient and health care systems.

Calculation of trunk muscle mass and trunk muscle quality indices for walking independence in asian patients with hip fractures

BACKGROUND & AIMS

This study aimed to investigate the association between trunk muscle mass and muscle quality, as evaluated by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), and the ability to walk independently in patients with hip fractures. Cutoff values for quantitative and qualitative indicators of the trunk muscles were also calculated.

METHODS

This study included 181 patients with hip fractures who were admitted to a convalescent rehabilitation ward. Trunk muscle mass and phase angle of the participants were evaluated on admission. The phase angle in this study was defined as the trunk muscle quality index (TMQI). Patients were classified into the independent (functional independence measure [FIM]-walk score ≥6; n = 101) and non-independent (FIM-walk score ≤5; n = 80) walking groups according to the FIM mobility scores at discharge.

RESULTS

The independent group had a higher FIM gain than the non-independent group (37.0 ± 13.6 vs. 27.1 ± 13.5, p < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis showed that the trunk muscle mass index (TMI) and TMQI were associated with the ability to walk independently. Furthermore, cutoff values of TMI and TMQI for male and female to estimate the ability to walk independently were 6.5 kg/m2 and 5.7 kg/m2, and 4.5° and 3.4°, respectively.

CONCLUSION

TMI and TMQI are related to the ability to walk independently in patients with hip fractures. These results suggest the importance of improving trunk muscle mass and muscle quality during rehabilitation of patients with hip fractures.

The Role of Perioperative Nutritional Status and Supplementation in Orthopaedic Surgery: A Review of Postoperative Outcomes

» Identification of malnourished and at-risk patients should be a standardized part of the preoperative evaluation process for every patient.» Malnourishment is defined as a disorder of energy, protein, and nutrients based on the presence of insufficient energy intake, weight loss, muscle atrophy, loss of subcutaneous fat, localized or generalized fluid accumulation, or diminished functional status.» Malnutrition has been associated with worse outcomes postoperatively across a variety of orthopaedic procedures because malnourished patients do not have a robust metabolic reserve available for recovery after surgery.» Screening assessment and basic laboratory studies may indicate patients' nutritional risk; however, laboratory values are often not specific for malnutrition, necessitating the use of prognostic screening tools.» Nutrition consultation and perioperative supplementation with amino acids and micronutrients are 2 readily available interventions that orthopaedic surgeons can select for malnourished patients.

Prevalence of dysphagia in patients after orthopedic surgery

OBJECTIVES

Oropharyngeal dysphagia is one of the most prevalent health complications in older adults. The prevalence of postoperative dysphagia is expected to rise with the increasing number of older patients undergoing orthopedic surgery; however, the specific prevalence and contributing factors remain unclear. This scoping review aimed to identify the prevalence and factors related to postoperative dysphagia in older orthopedic patients.

METHODS

This review included studies published up to September 2022 on postoperative patients aged ≥ 60 years who underwent orthopedic surgery. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, CENTRAL, Web of Science, and Ichushi-Web.

RESULTS

In total, 21 of the 2158 identified studies were reviewed. The studies were classified into the three categories according to the surgical site: cervical spine disease (n = 12), hip fracture (n = 7), and others (n = 2). The estimated dysphagia prevalence rates [95 % confidence interval] of cervical spine disease, hip fractures, and others were 16 % [8-27], 32 % [15-54], and 6 % [4-8], respectively. Factors related to postoperative dysphagia included cervical alignment in cervical spine disease, being older within the cohort, preoperative health status, malnutrition, and sarcopenia in hip fractures.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of postoperative dysphagia after orthopedic surgery was highest for hip fractures, followed by cervical spine and others. These results suggest non-neurogenic dysphagia in older patients undergoing orthopedic surgery and indicate that sarcopenia may contribute to postoperative dysphagia in this population. Therefore, further research should clarify the trajectory of postoperative dysphagia and the effectiveness of rehabilitation for postoperative dysphagia after orthopedic surgery.

GLIM criteria represent a more suitable tool to evaluate the nutritional status and predict postoperative motor functional recovery of older patients with hip fracture: A retrospective study

Early recognition of malnutrition is essential to improve the prognosis of older patients with hip fracture. The Nutritional Risk Screening 2002 (NRS-2002), the Short-Form Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA-SF) and the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM) are widely used in malnutrition diagnosis. However, criteria for predicting postoperative hip joint motor function in older patients with hip fractures are still necessary. The objective of this study was to select the most appropriate criteria from the NRS-2002, the MNA-SF and the GLIM in predicting the postoperative hip joint motor function recovery 1 year after surgery. This retrospective observational study included 161 patients aged ≥ 65 years with hip fractures. The nutritional status of patients was determined by the NRS-2002, MNA-SF and GLIM. The Harris hip joint score (HHS), the primary outcome of this study, was used to evaluate hip joint motor function. HHS was classified as excellent (HHS > 75) or non-excellent outcomes (HHS ≤ 75). Logistic regression models for hip joint motor function recovery were constructed. Both the receiver operating characteristic curve and the decision curve analysis were used to select the most predictive criteria. The overall mean age of the 161 patients was 77.90 ± 8.17. As a result, NRS-2002 (OR:0.06, 95%CI [0.01, 0.17]), MNA-SF (OR:0.05, 95%CI [0.00, 0.23]) and GLIM (OR of moderate: 0.03, 95%CI [0.01, 0.11]; OR of severe: 0.02 [0.00, 0.07]) were predictive for recovery of hip joint motor function. Additionally, both the area under curve of the receiver operating characteristic curve (NRS-2002: 81.2 [73.8, 88.6], MNA-SF: 76.3 [68.5, 84.2], GLIM: 86.2 [79.6,92.8]) and the decision curve analysis showed the GLIM was better than others. Compared with NRS-2002 and MNA-SF, GLIM was a more suitable nutritional assessment criteria to predict the postoperative recovery of hip joint motor function for older patients with hip fracture 1 year after surgery.

Retrospective study for correlation analysis of nutritional status with osteoporosis, sarcopenia and cognitive impairment in elderly patients with coronary heart disease

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is an abbreviation of coronary atherosclerotic heart disease, which remains challenging for diagnosis and treatment. Current study aims to explore the correlation between geriatric nutritional risk index (GNRI) and osteoporosis, sarcopenia, cognitive dysfunction in elderly patients with CHD, and to analyze the clinical diagnostic value of GNRI in the above complications. A total of 92 elderly patients with CHD treated in Suzhou Ninth People's Hospital from January 2020 to October 2023 were retrospectively collected as the experimental group, and 68 non-CHD subjects matched for sex and age in the same period of physical examination were randomly selected as the control group. Osteoporosis, sarcopenia and cognitive dysfunction were analyzed in all patients, and the correlation between GNRI and these indices in different populations was analyzed by Spearman's rank correlation. The diagnostic efficacy of GNRI in osteoporosis, sarcopenia, and cognitive impairment was analyzed by ROC curves. There was no significant difference in age, sex distribution, body mass index (BMI) and serum biological indexes between the elderly patients with CHD and the control group (all P > 0.05). Correlation analysis showed that GNRI level was positively correlated with bone mineral content (BMC), bone mineral density (BMD) T value and osteocalcin (OCN) (All r > 0, P < 0.05). In addition, GNRI levels were positively correlated with skeletal muscle mass (ASMI), grip strength and calf circumference (CC) (All r > 0, P < 0.05). However, there was no significant correlation between GNRI levels and cognitive dysfunction-related indicators (P > 0.05). In the elderly and elderly with CHD, the diagnostic AUC of GNRI was 0.875 and 0.862 in osteoporosis, and 0.912 and 0.932 in sarcopenia, respectively. The level of GNRI is significantly correlated with osteoporosis and sarcopenia. GNRI level, as an auxiliary diagnostic tool in elderly patients with CHD, exerts important clinical significance for early detection of the risk of complications, such as osteoporosis and sarcopenia.

The Impact of Sarcopenia Risk on Postoperative Walking Independence in Older Adults Undergoing Total Joint Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Sarcopenia is known to be associated with poor outcomes after arthroplasty; however, no study has reported the relationship between sarcopenia and postoperative walking independence. This study aimed to determine the impact of sarcopenia risk screening using the SARC-CalF questionnaire and calf circumference on the time to walk independently after total hip or knee arthroplasty in older patients.

METHODS

We included 599 nonobese patients aged 65 years and older who underwent unilateral and primary total hip or knee arthroplasty. Preoperative sarcopenia risk was assessed using the SARC-CalF or calf circumference. The outcome of this study was the time to independent walking after surgery; it was calculated as the number of days from the date of surgery to the date when the patient was able to walk independently. The association between preoperative sarcopenia risk and time to independent walking after surgery was analyzed using Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox proportional hazards models.

RESULTS

Among the 599 patients undergoing total joint arthroplasty, 175 (29.2%) were determined to be at risk of sarcopenia using SARC-CalF and 193 (32.2%) using calf circumference. The Kaplan-Meier curve showed that sarcopenia risk assessed by SARC-CalF or calf circumference was associated with a prolonged time to independent walking in patients undergoing hip arthroplasty (log-rank test, P < .001 and P < .001, respectively). In patients undergoing hip arthroplasty, the Cox proportional hazards model showed that SARC-CalF score of 11 points and greater or a calf circumference less than the cutoff was a risk factor for delayed time to independent walking (hazard ratios: 0.55 and 0.57, P < .001 and P = .001, respectively). There was no association between preoperative sarcopenia risk and postoperative time to independent walking in patients who underwent knee arthroplasty.

CONCLUSIONS

Sarcopenia screening tools, such as SARC-CalF or calf circumference, should be useful for planning postoperative rehabilitation in older adults scheduled for hip arthroplasty. However, the accuracy of SARC-CalF or calf circumference measurement in patients scheduled for knee arthroplasty may be low.

Predictors of in-hospital mortality in older patients undergoing distal femur fracture surgery: A case-control study

INTRODUCTION

Geriatric fractures including distal femur and hip fractures are associated with high mortality rates. Currently, prognostic factors for in-hospital postoperative mortality are not identified. We aimed to evaluate overall in-hospital mortality and related potential risk factors in elderly patients who underwent distal femur fracture surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective cohort study of patients older than 60 years, who underwent distal femur fracture surgery between January 01, 2003, and December 31, 2021, was conducted. A case-control study was conducted to compare two age-matched groups of elderly patients of equivalent ages at a 1:4 ratio. The in-hospital mortality rate was calculated and potential confounders were compared between groups.

RESULTS

A total of 170 patients were enrolled; five died during hospital stay after undergoing surgery, yielding a 2.94% in-hospital mortality rate. Twenty patients who did not die were included in the control group. Patients' demographics were similar. The case-control comparison showed that the time from injury to surgery, preoperative hemoglobin level, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and white blood cell count were significant factors correlated with in-hospital mortality.

DISCUSSION

The overall in-hospital mortality rate was 2.94%. Significant risk factors for in-hospital mortality included a longer time from injury to surgery, lower preoperative hemoglobin level and eGFR, and higher preoperative white blood cell count. In conclusion, preoperative comprehensive geriatric assessment, including cognitive, nutritional, and frailty status, should also be considered in the elderly fracture care model.

What Are the Barriers to Incorporating Nutrition Interventions Into Care of Older Adults With Femoral Fragility Fractures?

Femoral fragility fractures cause substantial morbidity and mortality in older adults. Mortality has generally been approximated between 10-20% in the first year after fracture and among those who do survive, another 20-60% require assistance with basic activities within 1-2 years following fracture.1 Malnutrition is common and perpetuates these poor outcomes. Nutrition supplementation has potential to prevent post-injury malnutrition, preserve functional muscle mass, and improve outcomes in older adults with femoral fragility fractures, however high-quality evidence is lacking, thus limiting translation of interventions into clinical practice. This review article is designed to highlight gaps in the evidence investigating nutrition interventions in this population and identify barriers for translation to clinical practice. Our goal is to guide future nutrition intervention research in older adults with femoral fragility fractures. Level of Evidence: V.

Concurrent Negative Impact of Undernutrition and Heart Failure on Functional and Cognitive Recovery in Hip Fracture Patients

Evidence on the effects of frailty, undernutrition, and heart failure (HF) on patients with hip fractures is scarce. This retrospective cohort study aimed to examine the effects of undernutrition and HF on outcomes in patients who underwent convalescent rehabilitation after hip fracture. Undernutrition was defined as body mass index (BMI) < 20.0 (Low BMI). Heart failure (HF) was defined as a B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) > 100 (High BNP). The study outcomes included the Functional Independence Measure motor domain (FIM-motor) and cognitive domain (FIM-cognition) at discharge. To consider the effects of low BMI, high BNP, and the simultaneous presence of both ("low BMI and high BNP"), we used multivariate linear regression analyses to examine whether these were associated with the outcomes. A total of 110 (mean age 87.4 years, 24.8% male) were analyzed. As a result, low BMI (β = -0.088, p = 0.027) and high BNP (β = -0.053, p = 0.015), each alone, were significantly associated with the FIM motor at discharge, whereas the simultaneous presence of "low BMI and high BNP" was significantly associated with the FIM motor at discharge, while the strength of the association was greater than each association alone (β = -0.152, p = 0.010). Further, the simultaneous presence of "low BMI and high BNP" was significantly associated with FIM cognition at discharge (β = -0.109, p = 0.014). Comprehensive multidisciplinary management is needed, including preoperative or early postoperative nutritional support and rehabilitation, followed by rehabilitation nutrition care management, in patients with hip fracture.

Does the time to surgery influence outcomes for patients with a hip fracture who undergo total hip arthroplasty?

Aims

Surgery is often delayed in patients who sustain a hip fracture and are treated with a total hip arthroplasty (THA), in order to await appropriate surgical expertise. There are established links between delay and poorer outcomes in all patients with a hip fracture, but there is little information about the impact of delay in the less frail patients who undergo THA. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of delayed surgery on outcomes in these patients.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was undertaken using data from the Scottish Hip Fracture Audit between May 2016 and December 2020. Only patients undergoing THA were included, with categorization according to surgical treatment within 36 hours of admission (≤ 36 hours = 'acute group' vs > 36 hours = 'delayed' group). Those with delays due to being "medically unfit" were excluded. The primary outcome measure was 30-day survival. Costs were estimated in relation to the differences in the lengths of stay.

Results

A total of 1,375 patients underwent THA, with 397 (28.9%) having surgery delayed by > 36 hours. There were no significant differences in the age, sex, residence prior to admission, and Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation for those with, and those without, delayed surgery. Both groups had statistically similar 30-day (99.7% vs 99.3%; p = 0.526) and 60-day (99.2% vs 99.0%; p = 0.876) survival. There was, however, a significantly longer length of stay for the delayed group (acute: 7.0 vs delayed: 8.9 days; p < 0.001; overall: 8.7 vs 10.2 days; p = 0.002). Delayed surgery did not significantly affect the rates of 30-day readmission (p = 0.085) or discharge destination (p = 0.884). The results were similar following adjustment for potential confounding factors. The estimated additional cost due to delayed surgery was £1,178 per patient.

Conclusion

Delayed surgery does not appear to be associated with increased mortality in patients with an intracapsular hip fracture who undergo THA, compared with those who are treated with a hemiarthroplasty or internal fixation. Those with delayed surgery, however, have a longer length of stay, with financial consequences. Clinicians must balance ethical considerations, the local provision of orthopaedic services, and optimization of outcomes when determining the need to delay surgery in a patient with a hip fracture awaiting THA.

The impact of frailty evaluation on the risk of venous thromboembolism in patients with hip fracture following surgery: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Frailty has been associated with a higher incidence of overall postoperative complications and mortality. However, the influence of frailty on the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients with hip fracture following surgery remains unclear. We performed a meta-analysis to systematically evaluate the above association.

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Wanfang and CNKI were searched for relevant observational studies comparing the incidence of postoperative VTE in patients of hip fracture with and without frailty. Data collection, literature searching, and statistical analysis were conducted independently by two authors. Using a heterogeneity-incorporating random-effects model, the results were pooled.

RESULTS

In this meta-analysis, 9509 patients from nine cohort studies were included. Pooled results showed that compared to those without frailty, patients with frailty at admission had a higher incidence of postoperative VTE (odds ratio [OR]: 2.59, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.25-5.39, p = 0.01; I2 = 66%). Subgroup analysis suggested the association between frailty and postoperative VTE was more remarkable in studies of patients with frailty prevalence < 50% (OR 6.28, 95% CI 3.31-11.90, p < 0.001; I2 = 8%) as compared to those ≥ 50% (OR 1.30, 95% CI 0.80-2.11, p = 0.28; I2 = 0%; p for subgroup difference < 0.001). Further meta-analyses showed that frailty at baseline was associated with a higher incidence of deep venous thrombosis (OR 3.15, 95% CI 1.33-7.47, p = 0.009; I2 = 59%), but not pulmonary embolism (OR 1.13, 95% CI 0.59-2.16, p = 0.72; I2 = 0%).

CONCLUSION

Frailty is associated with a higher incidence of postoperative VTE in patients with hip fracture.

Knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding sarcopenia: a survey between orthopedic and geriatric professionals in China

BACKGROUND

In elderly patients with fractures, sarcopenia impairs recovery and even increases mortality. Both orthopedic and geriatric professionals are at the forefront of treating sarcopenic patients with fractures. However, it is not clear to what extent they have knowledge and skills to diagnose and treat sarcopenia.

AIMS

This study aimed to analyze and compare knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding sarcopenia between orthopedic and geriatric professionals.

METHODS

An online cross-sectional survey was conducted in June 2022 targeting professionals in orthopedic and geriatric departments in two largest tertiary general hospitals in Taizhou, southeastern China. Results on knowledge, attitude, and practice of sarcopenia were analyzed. Variables with significance were then included in a stepwise multiple linear regression analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 220 professionals, 176 from orthopedic departments and 44 from geriatric departments, participated in this study. Orthopedic professionals scored lower than geriatrics in knowledge, attitude and practice (P < 0.001). The attitude score was high in both orthopedic and geriatric professionals. Stepwise multiple linear regression analysis showed that participants who had contact with sarcopenia patients had higher knowledge score (β = 1.941, P < 0.001); participants who had attended sarcopenia training in the past 6 months (β = 4.305, P < 0.001) had higher practice score.

DISCUSSION

Orthopedic professionals have deficiencies in the screening and diagnosis of sarcopenia. Improving the knowledge and training of professionals can strengthen practice. It is necessary to formulate diagnostic criteria and improve practice of sarcopenia through training.

CONCLUSION

Orthopedic professionals had limited knowledge and practice regarding sarcopenia compared with geriatric professionals. To improve sarcopenia practice, the use of diagnostic tools to formally diagnose sarcopenia and regular training on sarcopenia should be encouraged.

Rehabilitation Prognostic Factors following Hip Fractures Associated with Patient's Pre-Fracture Mobility and Functional Ability: A Prospective Observation Study

Low physical function is associated with poor outcomes in the elderly population suffering from hip fractures. The present study aims to evaluate the prognostic tools for predicting patient recovery after hip fractures and investigate the correlation between the pre-fracture motor and functional statuses. A prospective study was performed, including 80 patients suffering from hip fractures. Patient history, previous falls, the type of fracture and overall survival were evaluated. Patient-reported outcome measures (SF-36, EQ-5D/VAS, Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), Timed Up and Go (TUG) and Harris Hip Score (HHS)) were monitored before hospital discharge at 6 weeks, and 3, 6 and 12 months postoperatively. Overall, 55% of patients experienced at least one fall, and 46% of them used crutches before the fracture. The average CCI score was 6.9. The SPPB score improved from 1.4 ± 1.3 (1 week) to 4.4 ± 2.1 (48 weeks). A one-year age increase, female sex, and prior history of falls lead to 0.1-, 0.92-, 0.56-fold lower SPPB scores, respectively, at 12 months. The HHS recorded the greatest improvement between 6 and 12 weeks (52.1 ± 14.6), whereas the TUG score continued to improve significantly from 139.1 ± 52.6 s (6 weeks) to 66.4 ± 54 s (48 weeks). The SPPB and performance test can be routinely used as a prognostic tool.

Sarcopenia and Related Functional Outcomes Following Hip Surgery Among Egyptian Geriatric Patients With Hip Fracture

Background Sarcopenia is highly prevalent among elderly patients with hip fracture. Studies reported a significant association between sarcopenia and clinical outcomes in patients with hip fractures. The current study aimed to determine the prevalence of sarcopenia among elderly patients with hip fracture and its effect on short-term functional outcomes, highlighting predictors of postoperative functional decline.  Methods This is a cross-sectional study followed by a prospective cohort. Elderly patients (60 years and above) with hip fractures were recruited from the orthopedic department. Patients were followed by the ortho-geriatric team in the perioperative period and for three postoperative months. Patients were subjected to comprehensive geriatric assessment including a full history and physical examination. In the preoperative state and after three months of follow-up the following were assessed: functional independence using the Barthel index (BI); nutritional state using a checklist named DETERMINE Your Nutritional Health; sarcopenia using the SARC-F questionnaire assessing strength, ambulation, rising from a chair, climbing stairs, and fall history. Perioperative risk assessment and post-discharge care were obtained through medical records and by questioning patients or families. Preoperative sarcopenia was confirmed using the Ishii equation which is an equation that includes (age, calf circumference, and hand grip strength). Results Preoperative sarcopenia screening showed that 29.3% of patients suffered sarcopenia by SARC-F questionnaire and 28.6% by Ishii equation score. At the end of the follow-up, 57.9% of patients suffered sarcopenia by SARC-F questionnaire. There was a marked post-fracture decline in independence level; 52.1% had slight dependence in function, 27.1% had moderate dependence in function, and 20.7% had total dependence in function. Conclusion This study gives us the chance for a greater understanding of the negative effects of sarcopenia on the outcomes following hip fracture surgery in the geriatric population. It shows a prevalence of sarcopenia among the elderly with hip fractures at 29.3%. The elderly experience a marked post-fracture decline in their level of independence concerning basic activities of daily living. Those with older age, higher comorbidities, cognitive impairment, and functional dependence with poor nutritional state are more vulnerable to functional decline. Other perioperative risks include delayed surgery, surgery type, postoperative complications, longer hospital stays, lack of planned rehabilitative and nutritional plans, and postoperative depression. Early detection of sarcopenia helps establish early interventional plans to reverse such poor outcomes.

Ultra-old patients and long-term survival after hip fracture: a real-world assessment

It's still undetermined whether ultra-old persons, aged >90 years, are able to tolerate hip fracture surgical stress while maintaining their functional reserve, and even fewer studies have investigated the role of frailty on the risk of mortality, disability, or morbidity in the ultra-old. This is a prospective study performed at the Orthogeriatrics Ward of the IRCCS Policlinico San Martino (Genoa, Italy) that consecutively enrolled 205 older adult patients with hip fractures due to low-energy trauma. Namely, 85 patients were categorized as ultra-old, and 120 patients (64-89 years) were the younger control group. Demographic data, perioperative data, and rehabilitation data were collected. Here we estimated the overall survival and related predictive variables in hospitalized ultra-old hip fracture patients based on a methodologically robust frailty stratification (Rockwood 40-item tool). The median OS for the ultra-old was 18.7 months, which also showed a doubled 1-year mortality risk. Our findings assessed that frailty in the presence of malnutrition, delayed verticalization, and post-operative respiratory complications was associated with a two-fold increase in the risk of long-term mortality, irrespective of advanced chronological age in the ultra-old. Although the higher mortality rate in these patients may be related to a priori lower life expectancy, chronological age alone is an insufficient prognostic determinant for unfavorable outcomes. Our multicomponent prognostic score can be used in combination to stratify frailty in the ultra-old for timely screening and to deliver goals of care discussions prior to surgery, potentially targeting new orthogeriatric pathways for the improvement of appropriateness and treatment intensity.

Global Subjective Assessment and Mini Nutritional Assessment Short Form Better Predict Mortality Than GLIM Malnutrition Criteria in Elderly Patients with Hip Fracture

The objective of our study is to determine the prevalence of malnutrition in elderly patients with fragility hip fractures through different diagnostic tools and to determine which nutritional assessment tool better predicts mortality.

METHODS

This is a prospective study in patients over 65 years of age hospitalized with a diagnosis of hip fracture. A nutritional assessment was performed using several tools: the Mini Nutritional Assessment Short Form (MNA-SF), the Subjective Global Assessment (SGA), and the GLIM criteria. For the definition of low muscle mass, four different methods were used: hand grip strength (HGS), calf circumference (CC), anthropometry, and bioelectrical impedance (BIA). Mortality was registered at three, six and twelve months.

RESULTS

300 patients were included, 79.3% female, mean age 82.9 ± 7.1 years. The MNA-SF found 42% at risk of malnutrition, and 37.3% malnourished. Using SGA, there were 44% with moderate malnutrition, and 21.7% with severe malnutrition. In application of the GLIM criteria, 84.3%, 47%, 46%, and 72.7% of patients were malnourished when HGS, anthropometry, BIA, and CC were used, respectively. Mortality was 10%, 16.3% and 22% at 3, 6 and 12 months, respectively. In malnourished patients according to MNA-SF, mortality was 5.7 times greater [95%CI 1.3-25.4; p = 0.022] at 6 months and 3.8 times greater [95%CI 1.3-11.6; p = 0.018] at 12 months. In malnourished patients according to SGA, mortality was 3.6 times greater [95%CI 1.02-13.04; p = 0.047] at 3 months, 3.4 times greater [95%CI 1.3-8.6; p = 0.012] at 6 months and 3 times greater [95%CI 1.35-6.7; p = 0.007] at 12 months.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of malnutrition in patients admitted for fragility hip fracture is high. The SGA and MNA-SF are postulated as adequate tools to diagnose malnutrition in these patients, with predictive value for mortality at three, six, and twelve months.

The Relationship between Nutritional Risk and the Most Common Chronic Diseases in Hospitalized Geriatric Population from Central Poland

The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between Nutrition Risk Screening 2002 (NRS-2002) and the prevalence of concomitant chronic diseases among hospitalized older adults. This study included 2122 consecutively hospitalized older participants with an average age of 82 years. The criteria to participate were the ability to communicate and give consent. In multivariate design, the prevalence of nutritional risk with at least 3 points in the NRS-2002 score was associated with the presence of stroke, atrial fibrillation, dementia and pressure ulcers. Patients with arterial hypertension, lipid disorders, osteoarthritis and urine incontinence had a significantly lower (better) NRS-2002 score. The explanation of the inverse relationship between some disorders and nutritional risk may be their occurrence in relatively earlier age and the relationship with body mass index. In conclusion, the study revealed which medical conditions coexist with the increased nutritional risk in a “real-world” hospitalized geriatric population. The hospital admission of an older subject with stroke, atrial fibrillation, dementia or pressure ulcers should primarily draw attention to the nutritional risk of the patient.

Analysis of systolic and diastolic blood pressure variability in frail, pre-frail, and non-frail elderly patients: The relationship between frailty syndrome and blood pressure variability in the elderly

Frailty can change the prognosis and treatment approach of chronic diseases. We, therefore, conducted this study to explore the relationship between frailty syndrome and blood pressure variability in the elderly. The clinical data of 150 elderly patients with debilitating syndrome admitted to the neurology department of our hospital from May 2021 to May 2022 were selected, and they were grouped according to Fried debilitation scale and divided into 50 cases each in the debilitation group, pre-debilitation group, and no-debilitation group. The general data, co-morbidities, medications, and biochemical indexes were collected. The 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring was performed in each group, and the mean systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, nocturnal systolic load value, and diastolic load value were analyzed to determine the relationship between blood pressure variability and senile frailty. Serum albumin (ALB) and high-density lipoprotein were significantly lower in the debilitated and pre-debilitated groups than in the non-debilitated group (P < .05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that age (odds ratio [OR]: 3.910, 95% confidence intervals [CI]: 2.021-5.402) was a risk factor for frailty in the elderly, and serum ALB (OR: 0.656, 95% CI: 0.110-0.960) and HDL (OR: 0.581, 95% CI: 0.237-0.944) were protective factors for frailty in the elderly. Age, type of medication taken, co-morbidities, serum ALB, and HDL are influencing factors of debilitating syndrome. Serum ALB and HDL are protective factors against debilitating syndrome in the elderly. Age is an independent risk factor of debilitation in the elderly and increased fluctuation of blood pressure in the elderly can increase their risk of developing debilitating syndrome.

Clinical Efficacy of Nutritional Intervention Combined with Muscle Exercise on Sarcopenia Patients with Femoral Fracture: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

Objective

To study the clinical efficacy of nutritional intervention combined with muscle exercise on sarcopenia patients with femoral fracture.

Methods

From January 2019 to January 2021, a total of 100 sarcopenia patients with femoral fracture were included in this study and were divided into a control group (routine postoperative care) and a research group (nutritional intervention and muscle exercise), 50 cases in each group. Primary clinical outcomes included sarcopenia-related indicators and functional independence assessed by activities of daily living scale (ADL). Secondary clinical outcomes included time of fracture healing and hospital stay, pain score as assessed by visual analogue scale (VAS), and nursing satisfaction.

Results

Before the intervention, there was no significant difference in the indicators of sarcopenia and the indicators of functional independence assessed by ADL between the two groups (P > 0.05). After 3 months of intervention, the BMI, grip strength, calf circumference, pace, and body muscle rate of the patients in the research group were significantly higher than those in the control group (P < 0.05), while body fat rates were significantly lower than those in the control group (P < 0.05), and the capability of eating, walking, bathing, and doing housework in research group were all significantly higher than those in control group (P < 0.05). In addition, the time of fracture healing and hospital stay in research group were all significantly lower than those in control group (P < 0.05), and the VAS scores of the control group at each time point after intervention were significantly higher than those of the research group (P < 0.05). The nursing satisfaction of the patients in the research group was significantly higher than that in the control group (94.00% vs. 76.00%, P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Nutritional intervention combined with muscle exercise can help improve sarcopenia symptoms and promote fracture recovery in patients with sarcopenic femoral fractures.

The Association between Admission Serum Phosphorus and Preoperative Deep Venous Thrombosis in Geriatric Hip Fracture: A Retrospective Study

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the association between serum phosphorus level and preoperative deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in geriatric hip fractures.

METHODS

Older adults with hip fractures were screened between January 2015 and September 2019. Demographic and clinical characteristics of the patients were collected. Multivariate binary logistic regression and generalized additive models were used to identify the linear and nonlinear associations between serum phosphorus levels and preoperative DVT. Analyses were performed using Empower Stats and R software.

RESULTS

In this study, 1818 patients were included, with an average age of 79.39 ± 6.87. Of these, 30.25% were males, and 580 patients had DVT. The study found that when serum phosphorus was used as a continuous variable, there was a statistically significant difference in the relationship between blood phosphorus and the occurrence of DVT (p < 0.05). Furthermore, we also found curvilinear relationships. Serum phosphorus = 0.71 mmol/L was the inflection point in the curve. When serum phosphorus was <0.71 mmol/L, the serum phosphorus was associated with DVT (OR = 1.64; 95% CI: 1.04-2.59; p = 0.0333). With a 0.1 mmol/L increase, the DVT increased 0.64 times. When phosphorus was >0.71 mmol/L, there was no significant difference in the correlation between serum phosphorus levels and DVT (OR = 1.03; 95% CI: 0.98-1.09; p = 0.186).

CONCLUSION

Serum phosphorus was nonlinearly associated with preoperative DVT in geriatric patients with hip fractures, and serum phosphorus level could be considered a predictor of DVT risk.

Short-term and long-term increased mortality in elderly patients with burn injury: a national longitudinal cohort study

BACKGROUND

The population of elderly patients with burn injuries is growing. Insight into long-term mortality rates of elderly after burn injury and predictors affecting outcome is limited. This study aimed to provide this information.

METHODS

A multicentre observational retrospective cohort study was conducted in all three Dutch burn centres. Patients aged ≥65 years, admitted with burn injuries between 2009 and 2018, were included. Data were retrieved from electronic patient records and the Dutch Burn Repository R3. Mortality rates and standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) were calculated. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess predictors for in-hospital mortality and mortality after discharge at 1 year and five-year. Survival analysis was used to assess predictors of five-year mortality.

RESULTS

In total, 682/771 admitted patients were discharged. One-year and five-year mortality rates were 8.1 and 23.4%. The SMRs were 1.9(95%CI 1.5-2.5) and 1.4(95%CI 1.2-1.6), respectively. The SMRs were highest in patients aged 75-80 years at 1 year (SMRs 2.7, 95%CI 1.82-3.87) and five-year in patients aged 65-74 years (SMRs 10.1, 95%CI 7.7-13.0). Independent predictors for mortality at 1 year after discharge were higher age (OR 1.1, 95%CI 1.0-1.1), severe comorbidity, (ASA-score ≥ 3) (OR 4.8, 95%CI 2.3-9.7), and a non-home discharge location (OR 2.0, 95%CI 1.1-3.8). The relative risk of dying up to five-year was increased by age (HR 1.1, 95%CI 1.0-1.1), severe comorbidity (HR 2.3, 95%CI 1.6-3.5), and non-home discharge location (HR 2.1, 95%CI 1.4-3.2).

CONCLUSION

Long-term mortality until five-year after burn injury was higher than the age and sex-matched general Dutch population, and predicted by higher age, severe comorbidity, and a non-home discharge destination. Next to pre-injury characteristics, potential long-lasting systemic consequences on biological mechanisms following burn injuries probably play a role in increased mortality. Decreased health status makes patients more prone to burn injuries, leading to early death.

Geriatric nutritional risk index predicts all-cause mortality in the oldest-old patients with acute coronary syndrome: A 10-year cohort study

Background and objective

Nutritional status assessment in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients has been neglected for a long time. The geriatric nutritional risk index (GNRI) is a sensitive indicator for assessing the nutritional status of the elderly. This study aims to explore the association between GNRI and all-cause mortality in the oldest-old patients with ACS.

Methods

The patients who met the inclusion criteria were consecutively enrolled from January 2006 to December 2012. Clinical data were collected on admission, and all subjects were followed after being discharged. The nutritional status was evaluated using GNRI. The relationship between GNRI and all-cause mortality was assessed by using different analyses.

Results

A total of 662 patients with a mean age of 81.87 ± 2.14 years old were included in our study, and followed (median: 63 months, IQR 51-71). Patients whose GNRI ≤ 98 were reported as at risk of malnutrition (31.11%, n = 206). In multivariable analysis, we found that for each SD increase in GNRI, the risk of all-cause mortality lowered by 23%, and the HR for GNRI ≤ 98 was 1.39 (95% CI 1.04-1.86). After stratifying patients into three groups by tertiles of GNRI, we found that the HRs for tertile 2 and tertile 3 were 1.49 (95% CI 1.02-2.19) and 1.74 (95% CI 1.22-2.50), respectively. The trend test revealed a dose-response relationship between GNRI and all-cause mortality in the oldest-old with ACS. Lastly, in subgroup analyses, we found a reliable association between GNRI and all-cause mortality.

Conclusion

Malnutrition is common in the oldest-old patients with ACS, and GNRI could predict their long-term all-cause mortality in a dose-dependent manner. GNRI may be a prospective index for risk-stratification and secondary-prevention in the oldest-old patients with ACS.