Benefits and Drawbacks
In general, surgical procedures for hip fractures can provide significant health benefits and quality of life improvements. They will do for you what conservative treatment cannot. For educational purposes, we can break down the types of surgery into three: minimally invasive, open, and robotic. Minimally-invasive surgery uses only tiny incisions, and the recovery is very rapid. It allows the surgeon to access the site where the procedure is needed without opening the body. Open surgery requires more extensive incisions and is reserved for complicated cases. Robotic surgery is guided by a healthcare professional with equipment for more precise cuts and interventions.
The most important thing to remember is that you will only be listed for surgery if you’re ready. If surgery were more dangerous for you than the problem they’re trying to fix, doctors would not recommend it.
The main drawback of hip surgery is that even minimally-invasive procedures require downtime and can have complications. You will need to prepare for surgery and make extra expenses for lab exams and radiographs required to know if your body can handle the stress of being on the operating table.
The benefits and drawbacks of hip surgery depend on the type of surgery, your current health, and other aspects you can discuss with your doctor.