Proof-of-concept study for a national geriatric hip fracture registry in Brazil

Hip fractures in older adults are associated with high morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Their incidence is rising with population aging, yet Brazil still lacks a unified national registry to systematically monitor these cases. We developed a consensus-based registry protocol based on a review of national and international literature on hip fracture registries, in conjunction with alignment to the Fragility Fracture Network Minimum Common Dataset (MCD), and multidisciplinary expert consensus, adapted to the Brazilian healthcare context. The main outcome of this work is the development of a structured national hip fracture registry protocol for older adults in Brazil. Based on literature review, international registry models, and expert consensus, a standardized and tiered dataset aligned with the Fragility Fracture Network Minimum Common Dataset was developed, together with operational definitions of key variables and indicators and a national governance and implementation framework. The unified dataset presented in the HFR-Brazil – Minimum Common Dataset (FFN-aligned) – Unified Table constitutes the main outcome of this study. Implementing a national hip-fracture registry in Brazil is a strategic priority to improve orthogeriatric care, reduce morbidity and mortality, and align national practices with international standards. The protocol provides a pragmatic, evidence-based roadmap for nationwide adoption and for future publications reporting objective outcomes once data collection begins.