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Suggest Treatment For Fractured Hip When Suffering From Paralysis
My 86 yr old mother in law suffered a fractured hip 6 days ago but just diagnosed last night. Surgery is not an option as she is already paralyzed on left side from previous stroke. Already onset of pneumonia....bed rest is suggested but history of pulmonary embolus leaves me nervous, No coumadin.. dementia. it s a mess. What can we do?
Hi, Although your mother in law has paralysis from a stroke, this should not rule out surgery for her fractured hip. The benefits of surgery would be that she could mobilise and reduce the risk of further embolic problems. Also, she would be less likely to develop problems with worsening pneumonia as prolonged best rest could be avoided. If the fractured is not reduced and fixed then she may suffer pain until it unites naturally which could be a while. I suggest you discuss further with her doctors the merits of surgery. Regards, Dr K A Pottinger
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Suggest Treatment For Fractured Hip When Suffering From Paralysis
Hi, Although your mother in law has paralysis from a stroke, this should not rule out surgery for her fractured hip. The benefits of surgery would be that she could mobilise and reduce the risk of further embolic problems. Also, she would be less likely to develop problems with worsening pneumonia as prolonged best rest could be avoided. If the fractured is not reduced and fixed then she may suffer pain until it unites naturally which could be a while. I suggest you discuss further with her doctors the merits of surgery. Regards, Dr K A Pottinger