Do you need a referral for hip fracture surgery?

A hip fracture can follow a fall or another force and may cause groin or hip pain, inability to stand, or a leg that appears shortened or turned outward. Hospital clinicians assess pain, movement, circulation, other injuries, medicines, and general health. Imaging helps confirm the injury and the orthopedic or trauma team discusses whether fixation or joint replacement is suitable. The decision is made in hospital rather than delayed while seeking a community referral.

Call emergency services or go to an emergency department after a fall when the person has severe hip pain, cannot stand, or cannot safely move the leg. Keep them still and warm, avoid trying to straighten or walk them, and do not offer food or drink if urgent surgery may be needed unless emergency clinicians advise otherwise. Bring medication information and details of the fall if it is safe to do so.

Immediate medical help is needed for inability to bear weight, severe pain after injury, confusion, fainting, heavy bleeding, an open wound, a cold or pale foot, or new loss of sensation or movement. Older adults may have a fracture even when the fall seemed minor, especially if new hip pain and difficulty walking follow it.

Ask which imaging confirms the fracture, what operation is being considered, and how pain, blood-thinning medicines, and existing conditions affect preparation. Discuss likely movement restrictions, physiotherapy, equipment for home, and warning signs after discharge.