Distal Femur Fracture
Conditions
Brief summary
This is a two-year study proposal to assess feasibility of MWeST (Mobile Weight-Support Therapy) implementation after geriatric fracture and its effects on functional and patient-reported outcomes. The goal of this study is to improve mobilization of geriatric lower extremity trauma patients, with the aim of improving overall functional and patient-reported outcomes while decreasing complications and readmissions. Almost 50% of the adult population in the United States has osteopenia or osteoporosis, with over 2 million fragility fractures per year and a projected $25 billion in costs by 2025. These patients are at high risk for readmission due to complications, and at increased risk of mortality with these complications. Sarcopenia, a generalized loss of skeletal muscle associated with aging, has also been associated with increased disability and increased risk of future fracture in these patients. The investigator's study aims to assess the value of weight-support therapy for geriatric patients with lower extremity trauma in improving their overall risk of future injury and disability.
Detailed description
The goal of this study is to improve mobilization of geriatric lower extremity trauma patients, with the aim of improving overall functional and patient-reported outcomes while decreasing complications and readmissions. Almost 50% of the adult population in the United States has osteopenia or osteoporosis, with over 2 million fragility fractures per year and a projected $25 billion in costs by 2025. These patients are at high risk for readmission due to complications, and at increased risk of mortality with these complications. Sarcopenia, a generalized loss of skeletal muscle associated with aging, has also been associated with increased disability and increased risk of future fracture in these patients. The investigator's study aims to assess the value of weight-support therapy for geriatric patients with lower extremity trauma in improving their overall risk of future injury and disability.
Interventions
DEVICEDevice - Prism Medical FGA-700 Bariatric Floor Lift
This group will be using a Mobile Weight-Support Therapy (MWeST) device (the Prism Medical FGA-700 Bariatric Floor Lift) to determine if it improves mobilization of older patients with traumas of their legs.
Sponsors
Washington University School of Medicine
Study design
Observational model
COHORT
Time perspective
PROSPECTIVE
Eligibility
Sex/Gender
ALL
Age
55 Years to No maximum
Healthy volunteers
No
Inclusion criteria
* 55 and older * distal femur fracture * able to walk prior to fracture
Exclusion criteria
* patients unable to walk without any assistive devices post-injury * patients too medically unstable to participate in physical therapy
Design outcomes
Primary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Walking with device | 1 year | Determining if the Mobile Weight-Support device helps improve mobility after injury compared to walking without device. |
Countries
United States
Outcome results
None listed