Cost Analysis of Osteoporotic Hip Fractures

Objective: To assess the total costs of hip fracture treatment subsequently incurred in 1 year. Material and Method: A cohort study was conducted from January 1, 2002 to December 31, 2004. All new osteoporotic hip fracture patients were enrolled with informed consent. A total cost was estimated, and multivariate analysis was performed to determine factors related to costs. Results: A total of 37 patients were included. Average age was 75 + 11.8 years. Four of them (11%) died. Median total cost of hip fracture treatment in 1 year was 116,458.6 Baht (range 21,428.5-5,070,665.0). Median direct cost was 59,881.6 Baht (range 21,428.5-595,520.4). Direct cost per live-year saved was 118,168.3 Baht. Preoperative status was the only factor related to direct cost. Conclusion: Cost incurred from hip fracture in 1 year was high. The appropriate solution to prevent hip fracture might bring about good health in the Thai elderly and reduce its cost in the future.