Ronald Reagan - Hip Fracture

The Politician:

Ronald Wilson Reagan was the 40th president of the United States. Born 2/6/1911, Reagan turned from acting to become Governor of California in 1967. He was elected as President of the United States in 1980 and served from 1981 to 1989.

The Injury:

Former President Reagan fell while at home on 1/12/2001. He was brought to the emergency department at nearby St. Johns Hospital in Santa Monica, CA. Mr. Reagan was diagnosed with a hip fracture that would require surgical treatment. Mr. Reagan was suffering from Alzheimer's Disease, a condition that affects memory, and can contribute to injuries such as falls.

The Surgery:

On 1/14/2001, two days after sustaining the hip fracture, Mr. Reagan underwent surgery for treatment of the injury. The surgery involved the placement of a metal plate and screws into the thigh bone (femur). Not all hip fractures are treated the same--some types require repair, and others require a partial hip replacement. Determining the best treatment of a hip fracture depends on the location of the injury.