Orthopedic Surgery and the Geriatric Patient.

As more patients live longer, it is probable that an increasing number of geriatric patients will require surgery. An organized, systematic, coordinated, multidisciplinary approach to the perioperative management of these patients will result in fewer complications, improved outcomes, and reduced cost of care. Details are herein provided on the preoperative diagnostic evaluation and assessment as well as perioperative care provided to optimize outcomes. The diagnosis, workup, and treatment of osteoporosis and fragility fractures are presented. The article concludes with a review of the care of the geriatric orthopedic patient in the posthospital time period.