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Intertrochanteric Fracture


ED Management

    

      The patient should also be evaluated for other associated injuries and blood loss from the fracture site into the thigh.  The patient will need to be admitted to the hospital for internal fixation to allow more rapid return of mobility to minimize morbidity and mortality.   A 10-fold increase in mortality has been reported if not taken to the OR within 48 hours. Unlike femoral neck fractures, avascular necrosis and non union are relatively uncommon as the fracture line is through well vascularized bone.  There is an associated mortality rate of 10-30% in the first year which is related to preexisting co-morbidities.

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January 28, 2010
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