THE BURDEN AND OUTCOMES OF PERIPROSTHETIC FRACTURES AT A DISTRICT GENERAL HOSPITAL abdulmuqeet292@gmail.com

 

THE BURDEN AND OUTCOMES OF PERIPROSTHETIC FRACTURES AT A DISTRICT GENERAL HOSPITAL

5

United Kingdom

Oral or Poster

Periprosthetic fractures (PPFs) around hips and knees are emerging as a major challenge in the UK. Incidence has increased significantly, with associated morbidity, mortality, and financial cost. Despite this, there are no national guidelines on structured service pathways. This study aims to evaluate the burden and outcomes of PPFs at a UK District General Hospital (DGH) and reflect on current practices.

A retrospective cohort analysis was conducted on all patients with PPFs presenting between 2021 and 2024. Cases were identified via archived electronic handovers. Data were extracted from PACS, electronic care records, and medical notes. Statistical analysis was performed using Microsoft AI Copilot.

A total of 89 PPF patients were identified over three years; 62.5% were female. Incidence increased by 44% annually. Mean time to surgery was 3.9 days (range: 0–17), and mean hospital stay was 28.1 days (range: 2–131). Operative management was provided in 73.2% of cases, 21.1% were treated non-operatively, and 5.6% died pre-operatively. Of those operated, 73% underwent fixation and 27% revision. All cases were managed locally. Delays to surgery were significantly associated with longer hospital stay (p = 0.001) but not mortality (p = 0.34). Operated patient mortality was 16.9%.

PPFs are a growing and complex burden requiring dedicated multidisciplinary care pathways. Our findings support the need to maintain revision capability in DGHs and establish regional networks via a hub-and-spoke model to improve outcomes and resource use.