Extremities Fractures and Fixation and their Effects on Patients, Quality of Life

Abstract

Background: Worldwide extremities fractures is one of the most frequent causes of physical disability and changes in patients' quality of life. Aim: This study aimed to assess extremities fractures and fixation and their effects on patients' quality of life. Subjects and methods: A descriptive study that was conducted at the Orthopedic Departments in Tanta University Hospital and Casualty Hospital affiliated to Ministry of Higher Education, Egypt. A convenience sample of 100 adult patients (18-60years) of both sexes, conscious and able to communicate verbally without any neurological problems. The assessment was done four times throughout the period of the study before fixation surgery and one week, one month and three months after fixation surgery. Three tools were used: Tool (1) Structured interview questionnaire that included 2 parts, part (1) Sociodemographic questionnaire and Part (2): Clinical assessment. Tool (II) The short musculoskeletal function assessment questionnaires. Tool (III): Short form 36 (SF-36) health survey questionnaire. Results: There was a negative impact of extremities fracture on patients' total quality of life. oth extremities and specific lower extremity fracture had the poorest quality of life scores than upper extremity fracture. Conclusion: Extremities fractures and their surgical management including internal and external fixation have a considerable effect on all dimensions of patients' quality of life.