A retrospective study: exploring preoperative hyponatremia in elderly patients with hip fractures

Abstract

Background This research aims to examine the frequency, age-related distribution, and intensity of preoperative hyponatremia among elderly individuals with hip fractures. This study aims to provide valuable insights into the diagnosis of preoperative hyponatremia in this patient population. Methods This research involved the analysis of clinical data obtained from 419 elderly individuals with hip fractures (referred to as the fracture group) and 166 elderly individuals undergoing routine health examinations (designated as the control group). A comprehensive comparison was conducted, examining baseline characteristics such as age, gender, and comorbidities between these two groups. We further investigated variations in the incidence rate of hyponatremia, age distribution, and the severity of hyponatremia. Additionally, a subgroup analysis compared patients with femoral neck fractures to those with intertrochanteric femur fractures, specifically examining the incidence rate and severity of hyponatremia in these distinct fracture types. Results The incidence of cerebrovascular disease was found to be higher in the fracture group as compared to the control group in our research. Nevertheless, no significant differences in general health and other comorbidities were observed between the two groups. Notably, the fracture group exhibited a greater preoperative prevalence of hyponatremia, with its severity increasing with age. Furthermore, among elderly patients with intertrochanteric femur fractures, the incidence of preoperative hyponatremia was not only higher but also more severe when compared to those with femoral neck fractures. Conclusion Elderly individuals experiencing hip fractures exhibit a notable prevalence of preoperative hyponatremia, predominantly mild to moderate, with an escalating occurrence linked to advancing age. This phenomenon is especially conspicuous among patients with intertrochanteric fractures, warranting dedicated clinical scrutiny. The administration of sodium supplementation is advisable for the geriatric demographic as deemed necessary. Addressing hyponatremia becomes crucial, as it may play a role in the etiology of hip fractures in the elderly, and rectifying this electrolyte imbalance could potentially serve as a preventive measure against such fractures.