Simultaneous bilateral hip fractures in a level I trauma center

Background: Hip fractures are a common occurrence among the population today, especially in the elderly. However, the incidence of simultaneous bilateral hip fractures is very rare, and there is a paucity of data in the current literature documenting patients with these hip fractures. Methods: A retrospective case review was performed on all patients treated for hip fractures during the past ten years at our Level I trauma center. Results: From 1993 to 2002 there were eight patients who sustained simultaneous bilateral hip fractures. The mean age of the patients was 63 years (range, 34-88 years). The overall survival rate was 63 %. In the patients of age group younger than 65, the survival rate was three out of four (75%). In the patients of age group 65 and older, the survival rate was two of four (50%). The length of hospital stay was shorter on average for the younger population, 19 days (range, 17-27 days). The average hospital duration for the older population was 29 days (range, 28-30). Conclusion: Bilateral hip fractures are usually the result of a high-energy trauma and are associated with other injuries. The morbidity and mortality of this injury are quite high. Patient age, associated injuries, and comorbid conditions should be examined closely because they may influence the patient's recovery.