Hip fracture in the elderly patient: the right diagnosis for the right treatment

Fractures of the proximal femur are common in patients aged over the age of 75. These fractures are associated with significant mortality and morbidity, which drastically increase with surgical delay. There is a marked rise in mortality when surgical treatment is absent or delayed, and there is generally no reason to postpone surgery, as it puts patients at greater risk. This article aims to inform general practitioners, geriatricians, anesthesiologists, and emergency physicians about the different types of femoral fractures, their effect on femoral head vascularization, and the importance of timely surgical management within 36 hours. By involving non-surgical healthcare providers, we hope to reduce surgical delays and improve clinical outcomes for patients with these fractures. What is already known about the topic? Proximal femur fractures in patients over 75 years of age are well-documented and are considered medical emergencies due to the increased risk of complications, particularly when surgery is delayed. It is established that the longer the delay, the higher the risk of mortality and morbidity, underscoring the need for prompt and multidisciplinary management. What does this article bring up for us? This article informs non-surgical professionals, such as general practitioners, geriatricians, and anesthesiologists, about the appropriate surgical treatments depending on the fracture type. It also highlights the importance of early intervention to preserve the vascularization of the femoral head and minimize risks. Finally, this article emphasizes that delaying surgery poses unnecessary risks, with no valid justification for postponement. Keywords Proximal femur fracture, elderly patient, excess mortality, surgery