Determinants of Post-Fracture Disability Among Adult Trauma Patients at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital

Post-fracture disability represents a major consequence of inadequately managed traumatic injuries, limiting participation in work, family, and community life. This cross-sectional study identifies determinants of post-fracture disability among adult patients who sustained fractures in the preceding twelve months and are attending follow-up care at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH), North West Nigeria. Using a structured questionnaire and clinical assessment, data on fracture severity, treatment modality received, rehabilitation engagement, presence of complications, socioeconomic status, and disability status assessed by the WHO Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0 (WHODAS 2.0) will be collected from 200 consenting patients. Multivariate logistic regression will identify independent predictors of functional disability at follow-up. It is hypothesised that prior bone setter contact, delayed definitive management, and limited access to physiotherapy are significant contributors to persistent disability. Findings will be reported to the orthopaedic department at AKTH and to the Kano State Disability Affairs Commission to inform community rehabilitation programming. This research addresses an evidence gap on post-fracture disability determinants in North West Nigeria and supports the design of comprehensive fracture care pathways that extend beyond the acute surgical phase to include long-term rehabilitation and disability prevention. Keywords: post-fracture disability, WHODAS 2.0, orthopaedic outcomes, Kano, rehabilitation access.