Why Hip Fracture Surgery Timing Matters
January 8, 2026
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3 min
A systematic review published in The Bone & Joint Journal indicates that surgery for hip fractures within 24 to 48 hours significantly enhances survival and recovery outcomes in older adults. This comprehensive evaluation included 139 studies, covering over 4 million patients aged 50 and above across 36 countries. Early surgical intervention was consistently associated with improved mobility, shorter hospital stays, lower readmission rates, and reduced mortality. However, variability in defining 'early' surgery and reliance on observational studies raises questions about causality.
1. Surgery within 24-48 hours improves survival and recovery for hip fractures in older adults.2. 139 studies included, total 4,336,707 patients older than 50.3. Mostly observational studies; results subject to confounding.4. Definitions of 'early' surgery varied widely.5. Early intervention linked to better mobility, health-related quality of life.6. Early surgery reduced complications and hospital stays.7. Limitations exist due to variability in definitions and observational study design.
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