Screening for Cervical Myelopathy in Patients 50 and Older with Hip Fractures from Ground Level Falls

What this Trial Is About

Recent studies have found that many patients who suffer hip fractures from ground level falls may have undiagnosed cervical myelopathy, a condition where the spinal cord in the neck is compressed. This condition can impair balance and coordination, increasing the risk of falls and subsequent fractures. The study aims to screen patients with hip fractures to identify cervical myelopathy and help guide treatment to prevent future falls and fractures. Participants admitted to specific hospitals for hip fractures will undergo a detailed history and physical exam focused on detecting signs of cervical myelopathy. If the exam suggests this condition, patients will be offered a cervical spine MRI as part of their standard care to confirm the diagnosis. Those without signs of cervical myelopathy will not receive further evaluation for this condition during the study. During the hospital stay, study staff will review medical records to confirm eligibility, then perform the examination and history for research purposes. The main outcomes measured include detecting cervical myelopathy through exam and confirming diagnosis by MRI before discharge. The study involves a one-time evaluation at enrollment and follows patients until hospital discharge, with no long-term follow-up mentioned.

Cervical Myelopathy in Hip Fracture Patients