[Follow-up of elderly patients with fractures. Results of a catamnestic study of patients with femoral-(neck-)fractures].

A random sampling of n = 30 patients with fractures of the (neck of the) femur was followed up approx. 1 year after surgery, early mobilisation and rehabilitation. The average age was 79 years. The follow-up revealed a noticeable decrease in independence compared to the status at the time of discharge from hospital. This is in part due to health but mainly due to mental, social and organisational factors. The results agree with the assumption that the potential gained during the inpatient treatment period may be relatively invalidated during the subsequent outpatient phase unless measures are taken to ensure long-term quality assurance. This preservation of quality involves, among other factors, in particular satisfactorily exhaustive information and guidance of the patient and his relatives (by giving competent medical advice), clarification of the domestic situation already during the inpatient period, and cooperation with all aftercare institutions including the next of kin.