Does an orthopaedic surgeon perform hip fracture surgery?

Yes, an orthopaedic surgeon commonly performs hip fracture surgery, with the exact operation depending on the fracture location, bone condition and overall health. Orthopaedic surgeons specialise in injuries and conditions affecting bones, joints and supporting tissues. A trauma or fracture specialist may be involved when the break is complex. The hospital team first confirms the injury with an examination and imaging, then discusses the safest suitable treatment.

The surgical approach is guided by where the break sits around the hip and whether the bone can be stabilised. Some fractures are repaired with screws, plates, nails or a combination of fixation devices. A fracture involving the femoral neck may be treated with a partial or total hip replacement when repairing the damaged bone is unlikely to provide a stable joint. The surgeon also considers mobility before the injury, other medical conditions, medicines and the condition of the skin and soft tissues.

An anaesthetist reviews the person before surgery and helps plan pain control and anaesthesia. After the operation, nurses monitor the wound, circulation, movement and comfort. Physiotherapists usually help with safe transfers, walking aids and exercises, while occupational therapists can suggest practical changes for washing, dressing and moving around at home.

A suspected hip fracture needs urgent assessment in an emergency department, especially after a fall followed by severe groin, hip or thigh pain, inability to stand, or a leg that appears shorter or turned outward. Keep the person still and supported until help arrives. Do not try to straighten the leg, make the person walk, or give food and drink if an operation may be needed. Take a list of medicines and mention blood thinners, allergies and major health conditions.

Before leaving hospital, ask how much weight can be placed through the operated leg, which walking aid to use, how to care for the incision and when follow-up is planned. Arrange the recommended physiotherapy and make the home safer by clearing loose rugs, improving lighting and placing frequently used items within easy reach.

Seek immediate medical help for new chest pain, sudden breathlessness, fainting, confusion or severe worsening pain. Contact the surgical team promptly if the wound becomes increasingly red, hot, swollen or painful, if fluid or pus is leaking, if a fever develops, or if the leg becomes unusually cold, pale, numb or weak. New calf swelling or pain also needs prompt assessment.

Ask which part of the hip is fractured, whether fixation or replacement is being considered, and what factors led to that recommendation. Clarify the expected weight-bearing instructions, pain-control plan, blood-clot prevention, wound review and rehabilitation arrangements. Ask which symptoms should lead you to return to hospital and what support will be needed at home.