Authors
Abstract
Background: This study was intended to assess the total hospital cost of the patients with hip fractures (intertrochantric and femoral neck) in a teaching hospital. The aim was to show the financial burden on the patients and the society, and argue on the benefits of osteoporosis prophylaxis in order to decrease incidence of such fractures.Methods: The study was a chart review of 164 patients over 65 years of age with hip fractures hospitalized in Shariati hospital in a 3-year interval. The in-hospital expenses were calculated.Results: In 92 females and 72 males, the age range varied from 65 to 98 years. The average hospitalization period was 8 days. 85 patients spent an average of 2 days in the intensive care unit. The hospital cost for such person was 7.873.900 Rials (830 $US). The highest cost was 31.800.000 Rials, and the lowest, in a person who did not receive any operation, was 670.000 Rials. The total hospital expense in one year for hip fracture was 2000 million Rials.Conclusions: Personal and society costs are high for any hip fracture. Screening and treatment of osteoporosis may help to decrease this cost.
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