Geriatric Trauma Networks

Interdisciplinary (orthogeriatric) treatment approaches gain increased acceptance for the treatment of elderly trauma patients. They aim is to reduce peri-/postoperative complications and improve functional outcomes. To ensure the quality of treatment several interdisciplinary networks have been established nationally and internationally to discuss and establish standards in the care of elderly fracture patients. In this article, the basic principles and the socioeconomic significance of orthogeriatric patient care will be explained. Subsequently, the established networks, task forces/societies with a focus on geriatric traumatology are presented and international guidelines are demonstrated on the basis of established standards. In Germany, the "GBA" guideline for hip fractures, which has been mandatory for all hospitals since 01.01.2021, is of particular socioeconomic importance. Thus, the interdisciplinary care of elderly hip fracture patients in Germany will in the future be implemented according to current scientific knowledge.