[Treatment methods for geriatric patients at the Traumatology Clinic at the University of Cologne --retrospective studies].

: From 1st January 1988 until 31st December 1994, a total of 123 patients, aged over 80 years (2% of all patients) were treated in our clinic. Forty of the admitted patients showed degenerative alterations whereas 93 patients had had an accident. 77% of the falls at home constituted the most frequent cause resulting in a total of 81 fractures in 64 patients. Most of the fractures were located in the distal radius, the subcapital humerus by femoral shaft and the neck of the femur. Thirty-three patients received conservative treatment whereas ninety patients had to undergo surgery. 40% of the patients were operated on the first day of admittance. Median preoperative time amounted to one day. The perioperative mortality rate was 0.8%. Average time spent in the clinic amounted to 21 days. 74% of the patients could be discharged to their customary habitat. After discharge from the hospital, 25 cases required additional help and care. After more than 3 months following discharge 58% of all patients felt that reintegration into their former social environment had been achieved. In particular, the fractures of the lower extremities ought to be operated early for rapid mobilization. Long time of immobilization due to conservative methods of treatment increases the rate of complications. Reintegration into the normal environment at home and securing the necessary support for the patient after release are significant aspects of treatment in order to make the dusk their life as active, enjoyable and social as possible.