Complications of hip surgery

Complications of surgery for a hip fracture include infection of the hip or the urinary tract, a blood clot in a vein (deep vein thrombosis) or in a lung (pulmonary embolism), pneumonia (bacterial infection of the lungs), and pressure ulcers (breaks in the skin that can become infected). Many of these complications may result from bed rest and inactivity after surgery. These complications also become more serious when other factors are involved, such as advanced age, other health problems, and the general risks of surgery.

After a hip fracture, some people can never again be as independent as they were before the fracture. They may need to use a walker or cane to walk. They may need help with daily activities such as dressing and bathing. And many can no longer live on their own. Many people do not live through the first year after a hip fracture. It is hard to recover from a hip fracture. So be sure to do all you can to keep your bones strong and to avoid falls that can lead to a fracture. And if you do break your hip, work hard to get your strength and mobility back so you can be as independent as possible.