S72.06

Clinical Causes: High-impact falls, especially in elderly individuals Motor vehicle accidents or severe blows to the hip Sports injuries from trauma or hard falls Osteoporosis, which weakens bones and increases fracture risk Pathological fractures due to bone diseases like cancer

Key Symptoms: Sudden and intense pain in the groin or hip area Inability to move or bear weight on the affected leg Swelling and tenderness around the hip Deformity, such as shortening or outward rotation of the leg Bruising or discoloration in the hip region

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis typically involves a thorough medical examination followed by imaging tests. X-rays are the primary tool used to visualize the fracture and determine its severity. In some cases, advanced imaging techniques such as CT scans or MRI may be employed to assess the extent of the injury and to plan appropriate treatment. Physical assessments may also evaluate the stability of the hip joint and surrounding structures.

Treatment Protocols: Treatment approaches depend on the fracture's severity and the patient's overall health. Common options include: - **Surgical Intervention:** Most head of femur fractures require surgical fixation using screws, pins, or plates to realign the bone fragments and promote healing. - **Replacement Surgery:** In cases where the fracture is complex or the bone is severely damaged, a hemiarthroplasty or total hip replacement may be recommended. - **Non-surgical Management:** Limited to minor fractures or patients with significant health risks; this may involve bed rest, pain management, and restricted weight-bearing, but often less effective. - **Rehabilitation:** Post-treatment recovery includes physical therapy to restore movement, strength, and function of the hip joint. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial to prevent complications such as avascular necrosis (loss of blood supply to the femur head) or long-term mobility issues.