Effectiveness of anabolic steroids in improving outcomes for post-operative hip fracture patients: A randomized controlled trial

Augmented prehabilitation – is there a role for glucocorticoids and/or anabolic steroids to improve surgical outcomes?

“…A review of randomized controlled trials indicates mixed effectiveness of anabolic steroids, with no significant increase in postoperative complications. [39][40][41][42][43][44][45] In a rapid review of the current literature, six randomized controlled trials investigated the safety and effectiveness of anabolic steroids (either separately or in combination with exercise and/or nutritional supplements) following hip fracture and total knee replacement. [39][40][41][42][43][44][45] In these trials, predominantly in older female patients, Nandrolone Decanoate was administered via intramuscular injections, approximately every 3 weeks from 4 weeks to 12 months postoperatively, compared to a control group.…”

“…[39][40][41][42][43][44][45] In a rapid review of the current literature, six randomized controlled trials investigated the safety and effectiveness of anabolic steroids (either separately or in combination with exercise and/or nutritional supplements) following hip fracture and total knee replacement. [39][40][41][42][43][44][45] In these trials, predominantly in older female patients, Nandrolone Decanoate was administered via intramuscular injections, approximately every 3 weeks from 4 weeks to 12 months postoperatively, compared to a control group. The effectiveness of Nandrolone Decanoate on various outcomes, including strength, function, muscle volume, length of stay, and complications were somewhat mixed, with three trials showing a significant effect favouring Nandrolone Decanoate and three trials reporting no difference between groups.…”

“…Their application in surgical settings has been limited to postoperative rehabilitation, particularly in orthopaedic surgeries. A review of randomized controlled trials indicates mixed effectiveness of anabolic steroids, with no significant increase in postoperative complications 39–45 …”