Clinical Presentation & Protocol
Patient Usually Complains Of
Patient presents with acute left hip pain following a mechanical fall. Reports inability to bear weight on the left lower extremity. Pain is localized to the groin and exacerbated by any attempted movement of the hip. No history of prior hip surgery. Denies numbness or tingling in the distal extremity.
Clinical Examination Findings
Left lower extremity demonstrates classic deformity: shortened, externally rotated, and abducted. Significant tenderness to palpation over the left femoral triangle and greater trochanter. Range of motion of the left hip is severely limited and guarded due to pain. Neurovascular status: distal pulses (dorsalis pedis and posterior tibial) are palpable and symmetric; capillary refill is <2 seconds; sensation intact to light touch in all dermatomes.
Treatment Protocol
Immediate immobilization and NPO status initiated. Orthopedic consultation obtained for urgent surgical intervention. Pain management via IV analgesics. Radiographic imaging (AP pelvis, AP/Lateral left hip) confirms displaced intracapsular femoral neck fracture (ICD-10: S72.012A). Plan: Surgical fixation (ORIF or hemiarthroplasty) pending preoperative clearance.