[Osteoporotic fractures of axial skeleton]

Praxis (Bern 1994). 2012 Aug 8;101(16):1021-30. doi: 10.1024/1661-8157/a001022.
[Article in German]

Abstract

Osteoporotic fractures most frequently first occur in the axial skeleton, especially in the vertebral bodies of the thoracolumbar transition. Beside pain, these fractures cause increasing kyphosis leading to changes in statics and a shift of the bodies' center of gravity. This results in physiological, functional as well as neurological consequences that cannot be managed by means of a conservative therapy. The purpose of this article is to provide a brief overview on diagnostics and therapy of such fractures. Furthermore, fractures of the pubic rami need to be mentioned. They pose another frequent location for osteoporotic fractures and are also associated with a high rate of morbidity and mortality.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Algorithms
  • Fractures, Compression / diagnosis
  • Fractures, Compression / therapy
  • Humans
  • Kyphoplasty / methods
  • Lumbar Vertebrae / injuries*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Middle Aged
  • Osteoporotic Fractures / diagnosis
  • Osteoporotic Fractures / therapy*
  • Pelvic Bones / injuries
  • Prognosis
  • Spinal Fractures / diagnosis
  • Spinal Fractures / therapy*
  • Thoracic Vertebrae / injuries*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Vertebroplasty / methods