Factors affecting survival of patients with hip fractures.

The preoperative findings of 111 patients after 117 fractures of the proximal femur were recorded retrospectively. Data on survival, present type of residence and ambulatory status were analyzed. After age and sex, the presence of dementia, renal insufficiency and cardiac failure seemed to be the most important factors affecting the outcome. A full preoperative evaluation of patients with a proximal femoral fracture is needed to identify those at risk. This evaluation may help in the selection of the operative procedure.