Preoperative Consultations and Their Effect on Surgical Delays and Mortality in Hip Fracture Surgery

ABSTRACTObjectiveThe impact of preoperative consultations on mortality and morbidity rates, and their association with delays and hospital stays for surgery, remains a topic of discussion. This study aims to elucidate the necessity of consultations for those undergoing femoral neck fracture surgery, examining their influence on delays, hospital durations, and their correlation with mortality rates.MethodsThe study examined data from 320 emergency department patients with femoral neck fractures undergoing hip arthroplasty surgery at our hospital between 2011 and 2021, using digital medical records. Patients were consulted in relevant departments for risk optimization. They were categorized into two groups based on the time of surgery: Group 1 (operated within 48 h) and Group 2 (delayed surgery). The analysis included days from admission to surgery, total hospital stay, and time from surgery to discharge. Mortality rates, with a minimum 2‐year follow‐up, were assessed using digital records, patient contact, or a death notification system. Statistical analyses involved Mann–Whitney U, Kruskal–Wallis, post hoc analysis, Pearson's chi‐squared, and Fisher–Freeman–Halton tests (α = 0.05).