We assessed the functional and health outcomes of patients treated for a hip fracture ,6–12 months following the injury.

One hundred and ninety six patients over 60 years of age ,admitted with a subcapital or intertrochanteric fracture were sent two questionnaires, an EQ-5D, and a Hip specific outcome questionnaire based on the WOMAC .Patients with pre-existing dementia were excluded.108 (55%) returned completed questionnaires.

There were 36 males and 72 females with an average age of 81. The average time since fracture was 8.44 months. There were 46 intertrochanteric and 62 sub-capital fractures.WOMAC scores averaged 35 for intertrochanteric fractures and 25 for subcapital fractures. Males scored higher than females (31 v’s 24)Age had no influence on WOMAC scores.EQ 5D results were compared with the general population, and showed significant problems with mobility, pain, performance of usual activities, and self care.

This study shows that despite seemingly successful treatment of the fracture, patients suffer very significant reductions in function and quality of life. Greater effort needs to be made to address these issues rather than concentrating on the development of new fixation devices, if we are to improve the results of treatment of these increasingly common fractures.