'Black ice,' known as the assassin of winter, is a thin layer of ice coating the road surface. It appears similar to asphalt, making it hard to notice, and is considered one of the main causes of falls. For the elderly, falls that lead to hip fractures significantly increase the risk of death.

 

◇Hip fracture, if left untreated, mortality rate can reach up to 70%

 

Winter can easily lead to falls due to icy roads everywhere. Cold weather causes muscles and joints to stiffen, and wearing thick outerwear and various winter accessories can prevent the body from responding quickly on slippery surfaces. For osteoporosis patients and the elderly, falls can result in fractures, especially hip fractures, which require careful attention.

The hip joint is the bone located at the point where the pelvis and the leg meet. It enables leg movement, supports body weight, and maintains upper and lower body balance. When the hip joint fractures, it becomes impossible to bear weight, resulting in severe pain and potentially requiring prolonged bed rest. This can lead to secondary complications such as pneumonia, pressure sores, and worsening heart conditions. The biggest problem is when a hip fracture is left untreated.

 

According to the National Health Insurance Service, neglecting hip fractures can be fatal, with a mortality rate of 25% within one year and up to 70% within two years. Dr. Yoo Jae-ha, head of the Joint Center at Gangnam Naru Hospital, said, "The most feared cancer can often be cured if diagnosed early, and with consistent treatment, patients can lead normal daily lives." He added, "However, hip fractures have a high mortality rate, and in many cases, up to 60%, individuals cannot regain normal walking ability." Additionally, he explained that women tend to have a higher prevalence of osteoporosis after menopause, and their muscle mass decreases, making recovery of mobility more difficult.

 

◇ "Surgery should be prioritized for rapid treatment"

 

Compared to other diseases, hip fractures are best treated primarily with surgery to prevent complications. Hip surgery is generally divided into two main methods depending on the fracture site. If the part connecting the greater and lesser trochanters below the femoral head (the head of the bone) is fractured, internal fixation with metal screws is performed. This method involves using metal hardware to attach the broken bone. While it allows for preservation of the damaged hip joint, there is a risk of metal plate failure, so excessive movement should be avoided until the bone heals.

 

In cases where the femoral head is fractured, blood circulation to the femoral head is disrupted, so instead of simply reattaching it, artificial hip replacement surgery is performed. Artificial hip replacement surgery involves inserting a prosthetic joint to replace the damaged hip joint. In elderly patients, because bones tend not to heal well regardless of the injury location, artificial hip replacement surgery is often performed.

 

Manager Yoo Jae-ha said, "Artificial hip replacement surgery allows early postoperative exercise and weight-bearing, leading to a higher recovery rate for patients." He added, "Unlike in the past, the development of surgical approaches has reduced damage to surrounding muscles and bleeding." He continued, "The materials used for artificial joints have also diversified with technological advancements, including ceramics and metals, and their durability has been significantly improved."

 

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Hip joint fractures are the most dangerous.

 

It seems it rained early this morning.

The black ice was really slippery this morning.

 

So far, the shaded areas in the morning

The road is slippery.

 

For our parents and those who are also elderly,

Especially, be careful of black ice.