BOPDHB Patient Resources Fractured Neck of Femur Patient Handbook- May 2015 | Page 10

What is a ‘fractured neck of femur’?

Total Hip Joint Replacement
Both the hip socket
(acetabulum which
resembles a cup-shaped
bone in the pelvis) and
the top of the femur are
replaced with an artificial
joint (or prosthesis). If
you have had this type of repair you will also need to follow hip
precautions, later in this book to reduce the risk of dislocating your
hip.

Benefits and Risks with having an operation
This section is not meant to frighten you, but help you to
understand the reason for surgery and to help you cope better
with any complications that may occur. It is important that you
understand that there are possible risks linked with any major
operation. An operation to repair your fractured neck of femur is
no exception.

Benefits
The main benefit of having an operation is that you will be able to
get up and start walking again very soon after your surgery. As with
all operations there are some risks associated. The team looking
after you will do everything they can to minimise these risks

Risks that can occur
A small percentage of patients may develop complications. Factors
such as age and other medical conditions may increase the chance
for complications and delay or limit your full recovery. By getting
up out of bed the day after your operation, you will be helping to
reduce many of these risks.
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