Hip Fracture Surgery at ORA Orthopedics in the Quad Cities

Advanced, Compassionate Care for Hip Fractures

At ORA Orthopedics, we understand that a hip fracture can be a life-changing event. As the largest and most advanced provider of specialized musculoskeletal care in the Quad Cities, our board-certified surgeons and dedicated team are committed to helping you return to the activities you love as quickly and safely as possible. Whether you live in Bettendorf, Davenport, Moline, Silvis, or surrounding areas in the greater Quad Cities region of Iowa and Illinois, you can trust ORA Orthopedics for comprehensive fracture care delivered with compassion and expertise.

What Is a Hip Fracture?

A hip fracture is a break in the upper portion of the femur (thighbone), most often caused by falls or direct blows to the hip. Diseases such as cancer and osteoarthritis can also weaken the hip joint, making it more vulnerable to breakage. Hip fractures are especially common in older adults due to osteoporosis, but they can affect anyone. Symptoms typically include severe pain in the hip or groin, inability to bear weight, and sometimes visible deformity or swelling.

Types of Hip Fractures

 

The best course of hip fracture treatment depends on the extent and location of the fracture, as well as the patient’s lifestyle and overall health. The main types of hip fractures include:

  • Femoral Neck (Intracapsular) Fractures: Occur just below the ball of the hip joint.
  • Intertrochanteric Fractures: Occur between the neck of the femur and the shaft.
  • Subtrochanteric Fractures: Occur below the lesser trochanter, further down the femur.

Each type of fracture may require a different surgical approach, which your ORA surgeon will explain in detail.

Personalized Surgical Approaches

At ORA Orthopedics, our Hip & Knee Center of Excellence utilizes minimally invasive, muscle-sparing techniques to achieve outstanding results. Our surgeons are experienced in the latest advances, including:

  • Internal Fixation: Using screws, plates, or rods to stabilize the broken bone.
  • Hip Pinning: A large screw is inserted across the fracture site to hold the bone in place.
  • Partial Hip Replacement (Hemiarthroplasty): Replaces only the ball part of the hip joint.
  • Total Hip Replacement: Replaces both the ball and socket with artificial components, often using the direct anterior approach for less muscle disruption and faster recovery.

Our team will help you understand your options and select the procedure best suited to your needs, always focusing on restoring mobility and quality of life.

What to Expect: The ORA Patient Experience

Our treatment begins with how we treat you. As an ORA patient, you’ll receive clear explanations about your condition and surgery in plain English. We encourage you to ask questions and share any concerns, so you can make an informed and confident decision about your orthopedic health. Our goal is to empower you throughout your journey, from diagnosis to recovery.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery from hip fracture surgery is a partnership between you and our team. After surgery, our onsite physical therapists will assist you in regaining strength, flexibility, and independence. Early mobilization is key—most patients begin gentle movement and walking with assistance within a day after surgery. Our individualized rehabilitation programs focus on:

  • Strengthening Muscles: Exercises for the hip, thigh, and core to restore support and balance.
  • Improving Range of Motion: Stretching and mobility exercises to prevent stiffness.
  • Restoring Walking Ability: Gait training to help you walk safely and confidently.
  • Fall Prevention: Education and strategies to reduce future risk.

Physical therapy at ORA is evidence-based and patient-centered, designed to help you return to home, work, and the activities you enjoy most. Our therapists collaborate closely with your surgeon to monitor progress and adjust your program as needed.

Risks and Complications

While hip fracture surgery is generally safe and effective, it does carry some risks, including:

  • Blood clots
  • Infection
  • Avascular necrosis (loss of blood supply to the bone)
  • Nerve or blood vessel injury
  • Implant failure or nonunion (failure of the bone to heal properly)

At ORA, we follow strict protocols to minimize these risks and ensure your safety. Our team will discuss all potential complications and how we work to prevent them.

Long-Term Outcomes and Prevention

Most patients can expect to return to their previous level of activity, though recovery times vary. Full recovery may take several months, and older adults may need additional support. To prevent future fractures, ORA offers education on bone health, osteoporosis management, and fall prevention strategies. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, staying active, and following your rehabilitation plan are essential for long-term success.

Why Choose ORA Orthopedics?

With easily located centers, extended hours, and same- or next-day appointments, ORA Orthopedics makes it easier than ever to receive specialized surgical care in the Quad Cities. Our patient-centered approach, advanced techniques, and collaborative team ensure you receive the highest quality care every step of the way. Generations of families have trusted ORA for their orthopedic needs—let us help you get back to living life to the fullest.

FAQs

A hip fracture refers to a break in the upper part of the femur (thigh bone) near the hip joint. It commonly occurs in older adults due to falls or weakened bones from osteoporosis.

Common symptoms include severe hip or groin pain, inability to walk or bear weight, swelling, bruising, and the leg appearing shorter or turned outward.

Older adults, especially women with osteoporosis, are at higher risk. Other risk factors include poor vision, balance issues, certain medications, and chronic conditions like Parkinson’s disease.

Yes, most hip fractures require surgical intervention. The type of surgery depends on the location and severity of the fracture, as well as the patient’s overall health.