Specialized Services

Our treatment model is based on a standardized set of protocols that results in faster times to surgery and quicker discharge for older adult surgical fracture patients. By offering surgery and getting patients moving post-surgery more quickly, patients face fewer complications such as skin infections or pneumonia.

Fast Track Admission

Getting an older adult patient medically stable and then performing the appropriate surgical procedure in a timely manner produces the best results for the patient. We provide:

• Expedited evaluation in the Emergency Department. 
• Direct admission to The Geriatric Fracture Center from partner nursing homes and senior living communities.
• Direct admission to The Geriatric Fracture Center from other hospitals and emergency departments through the Strong Consult & Transfer Center .

Surgeons and Geriatricians Work Together

When patients are referred to us, our surgeons and geriatricians work together to jointly manage their care. Our decision to operate takes into account all the special issues that may impact older adults . We implement specialized practices both pre- and post-surgery that are unique to older adults.

Comprehensive Pre-Surgical Evaluation

• Assessment of each medicine the patient is taking to verify its appropriateness singly and in combination. 
• Extensive lab testing
• A cardiogram
• An assessment for delirium and measures to mitigate its effects
• A pre- and post-surgery pain control plan

Post-Surgical Protocol

• Remove tubes and catheters as early as possible
• Encourage weight bearing as soon as possible so muscles don’t waste and functional improvement can progress more quickly
• Start patients on a special geriatric diet as soon as possible (high calories and protein in a relatively small, non-intimidating volume)

Periprosthetic Fractures

Fractures near an implant are commonly called periprosthetic or peri-implant fractures. These fractures pose unique challenges for orthopedic surgeons and they're especially technically demanding in older adults with poor bone quality. Because we specialize in fractures in older adults, our surgeons are exposed to a higher-than-average volume of periprosthetic problems.

Specialized Surgical Techniques

• Locking plate technology dramatically reduces the chances that a fracture repair will fail.

Other Services

• Home heath care, home safety assessments, and rehabilitation assistance through UR Medicine Home Care
• Post-surgical rehabilitation at The Highlands at Pittsford, the Highlands at Brighton, and many other partner nursing facilities in the Rochester area
• Social workers with specialized geriatric training and experience provide complete case management