Prediction of Mortality and Morbidity After Hip Fracture Using Monocyte Distribution Width (MDW)

The Role of Monocyte Distribution Width (MDW) and Other Inflammatory Biomarkers in the Prediction of Mortality and Morbidity in Patients With Hip Fracture

Hip fracture is a common injury in older adults and is often associated with serious complications, longer hospital stays, and increased risk of death. One of the most important causes of poor outcomes after hip fracture surgery is infection, including severe infections such as sepsis. Early identification of patients at higher risk for complications could help improve treatment and survival.

This study aims to examine whether a blood test parameter called Monocyte Distribution Width (MDW), along with other commonly used inflammatory markers, can help predict complications and survival in elderly patients with hip fracture. MDW is measured as part of a routine complete blood count and has shown promise in the early detection of infection and systemic inflammation.

Approximately 100 patients aged 65 years or older who are admitted to the hospital with a low-energy hip fracture will be included in this study. Blood tests will be performed at hospital admission, after surgery, and at other time points as part of standard clinical care. These tests include routine blood counts and inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin (PCT), antithrombin III, and MDW. No additional invasive procedures are required beyond standard medical care.

Researchers will collect information about each patient's medical history, overall health status, and daily activity level before the fracture. Patients will be followed after surgery to assess complications, length of hospital stay, and survival at 1 month, 3 months, and 1 year.

The results of this study may help determine whether MDW can be used as a simple and reliable marker to identify patients at higher risk of complications or death after hip fracture. This could support earlier intervention, closer monitoring, and improved care for elderly patients with hip fractures in the future.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients aged ≥65 years
• Admission with low-energy hip fracture (femoral neck, intertrochanteric, or subtrochanteric fracture)
• Admission to General Hospital of Attica KAT
• Availability of baseline laboratory measurements, including complete blood count with monocyte distribution width (MDW) and inflammatory biomarkers

Exclusion Criteria:

• Age <65 years
• High-energy trauma-related hip fractures
• Pathological fractures