Abstract
Almost all the literature dictates a period of non-weight-bearing after surgical treatment of articular and peri-articular fractures of the pelvis and lower extremities. This is followed by partial weight-bearing which is based on the number of weeks after surgery. However, none of these recommendations are based on evidence. When taking muscle force and gravity into account, non-weight-bearing is actually impossible. In addition, lack of patient compliance, lack of muscle force in the elderly and four-fold energy expenditure make it almost impossible to ensure that patients will adhere to their surgeon's restrictions. Based on our experiences in a large cohort of patients with fractures of the pelvis and lower extremities, we see no drawbacks in permissive weight-bearing and early recovery in most cases. We strongly believe that most patients are able to listen to their body and understand body awareness, while the creation of a safe environment makes more personalised follow-up treatment possible.
Translated title of the contribution | Earlier weight-bearing mobilisation after fracture fixation |
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Original language | Dutch |
Pages (from-to) | D1533 |
Number of pages | 6 |
Journal | Nederlands Tijdschrift voor Geneeskunde |
Volume | 161 |
Publication status | Published - 18 May 2017 |
Keywords
- English Abstract
- Journal Article