News Release

Undiagnosed neurological disorders may cause falls and hip fractures in the elderly

Hip fracture patients should be screened for cervical myelopathy

Peer-Reviewed Publication

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

SAN FRANCISCO -- Hip fractures are a common cause of morbidity and mortality in elderly patients. Cervical myelopathy is a common neurological condition that can diminish balance and coordination.

In new research presented today at the 2012 Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), investigators screened 28 hip fracture patients and 35 hip replacement patients (all cognitively healthy) for cervical myelopathy. Eighteen percent (five) of the hip fracture patients did indeed have cervical myelopathy. None of the hip replacement patients tested positive for the condition.

Undiagnosed neurological disorders may predispose patients to falls and fractures. Screening for cervical myelopathy should be standard care for all hip fracture patients, to reduce the risk for additional falls and fractures.

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About the AAOS

With more than 37,000 members, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, (http://www.aaos.org) or (http://www.orthoinfo.org) is the premier not-for-profit organization that provides education programs for orthopaedic surgeons and allied health professionals, champions the interests of patients and advances the highest quality of musculoskeletal health. Orthopaedic surgeons and the Academy are the authoritative sources of information for patients and the general public on musculoskeletal conditions, treatments and related issues. An advocate for improved care, the Academy is participating in the Bone and Joint Initiative (http://www.usbjd.org), the global initiative to raise awareness of musculoskeletal health, stimulate research and improve people's quality of life. The Academy's 2012 Annual Meeting is being held February 7 - 11, 2012 at the San Francisco Moscone Center in San Francisco.


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