A Simple Classification System for Hip Fractures

Background: We have developed a Hip Fracture Classification which stratifies patients into 4 groups upon admission according to fracture complexity. This classification considers patho-anatomic and physiologic parameters and was developed to help identify high-risk patients, with more surgical demands and consequently higher incidence of morbidity. Materials and Methods: Data was gathered prospectively for a cohort of 273 consecutive patients admitted over a 12- month period between 2008 and 2009 and classified according to the Hip Fracture Complexity Classification (C0 - C3). The following outcome measures (mortality and length of hospital stay) were reviewed at thirty days and one year. Result: The overall mortality was 4.4% at 30 days and 20% at 1 year. There were significant differences in 1-year mortality between all stratified groups (P