P. Turner et al., FRACTURED NECK OF THE FEMUR (DRG-210 211) - PROSPECTIVE OUTCOME STUDY/, Australian and New Zealand journal of surgery, 67(2-3), 1997, pp. 126-130
Background: An ageing population will increase the need for resources
to treat patients with a fractured neck of femur (DRG 210/211). Provis
ion of these resources will be helped by a better understanding of cur
rent practices. Methods: A prospective study of outcome at discharge f
or 100 consecutive patients with DRG 210/211 was conducted at five Vic
torian metropolitan reaching hospitals to assess length of stay and th
e reasons for any variations. Results: The major influences on timing
of discharge were: delayed availability of rehabilitation beds; the ti
ming of referral and assessment by the Geriatric Assessment Tram: dela
y in surgery more than 24 h after admission; and development of postop
erative complications. Conclusion: The efficient management of patient
s with DRG 210/211 requires a strong protocol of treatment and referra
l strategies with adequate resources.