Bone Abstracts

Objective: From April 2012, pre- and post-operative cognitive assessment amongst hip fracture patients is one of the criteria for enhanced payment to hospitals in England in UK. Aim of the study was to assess the association between dementia and hip fractures

Methods: Setting – Acute hip unit at a UK hospital in Wales (not England).

Subjects – patients admitted following hip fractures

A single researcher collected data on the prevalence of dementia based on AMTS amongst hip fracture patients from medical records.

Results age range 65–94 years 70% females.

Total number of study population=130.

Twenty patients did not have any mental assessments done. The prevalence of dementia amongst 110 hip fracture patients was 26%. Patients from long-term care setting were significantly more likely to have dementia (49%) compared to those admitted from the community (18%). Forty percent of dementia patients had a documented past history of dementia.

Conclusions: Fracture patients have a high prevalence of dementia and cognitive impairment. Many are previously undiagnosed, do not routinely receive cognitive assessment. This is a missed opportunity for the early diagnosis and providing integrated care for patients suffering with dementia. There is a need for good-quality early diagnosis and intervention for all suspected dementia patients- through specialist assessment that delivers rapid assessment, accurate diagnosis and treatment, care and support.