Miracle at 105: Woman Undergoes Successful Hip Surgery at SMS Hospital

A 105-year-old woman from the Sodala area in Jaipur successfully underwent hip fracture surgery at the trauma center of SMS Hospital on Saturday. She is expected to be discharged by Tuesday. The old woman suffered the injury following a fall at her residence. The hospital records indicate that she was born in 1920. The doctors are confident despite her age that she would recover and be mobile after surgery.

Her tumble caused extensive damage to her hip bone, and she was taken by her family to the hospital in an emergency. "Surgery at this age carries significant risks and complications, but she has responded well to the procedure," said Dr. Anurag Dhaker, who led the surgical team. "We implanted a prosthetic component to repair the fractured area, which involved replacing the hip joint ball. She will regain her ability to walk," he added.

Given the potential complications of prolonged immobility, doctors proceeded with the surgery rather than leaving the fracture untreated. Without medical intervention, she could have been confined to bed, increasing the risk of respiratory problems, bedsores, urinary tract infections, and pneumonia. Dr. Dhaker said that hip fractures are especially dangerous for older patients, usually resulting from falls and exacerbated by osteoporosis, a weakening of the bones. Injuries like this can have serious implications for health, mobility, and overall quality of life. Her age makes this case stand out. Studies have shown that despite the successful treatment of hip fractures, the fractures have a long-term impact on mobility and health, generally affecting mortality rates in older individuals.

What the research tells us about effects of hip fracture on recovery and quality of life?

Research indicates that patients who survive hip fractures have impaired mobility, reduced independence, and a lower quality of life than their counterparts. Restoration of walking capacity and activities of daily living is of most importance during the first six months following the fracture.

Research indicates that 40% to 60% of patients recover pre-fracture mobility and performance of basic daily activities, and 40% to 70% regain independence for basic self-care. Nevertheless, among those who were independent prior to fracture, 20% to 60% are likely still to need help with daily functions a year or two following the injury. Residents of care facilities have a lesser chance to regain full function than those who were living independently in the community prior to their fracture.

Western countries transfer 10% to 20% of hip fracture patients to long-term care facilities from the time of injury. Yet, little research has been conducted on how this type of fracture affects social, community, and civic engagement participation. ^[1]

References:

1. Dyer, S.M., Crotty, M., Fairhall, N. et al. A critical review of the long-term disability outcomes following hip fracture. BMC Geriatric 16, 158 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12877-016-0332-0

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Sai Sindhuja K/MSM)