[Treatment options for problematic thoracic and lumbar osteoporotic fractures]

Orthopade. 2008 Apr;37(4):307-20. doi: 10.1007/s00132-008-1227-3.
[Article in German]

Abstract

Most osteoporotic sintering fractures are treated conservatively. However, persistent pain and consecutive spinal deformity may require certain cement-augmenting interventions. These procedures have proven their intermediate-term efficacy in pain reduction, prevention of progressive sintering and improvement of the overall quality of life in the majority of patients. In fractures with relevant spinal stenosis, persisting instability, gross deformity and trauma-associated osteoporotic fractures with or without neurological deficits, the therapeutic options may call for more extensive surgical procedures. In this regard, poor bone quality, age and respective comorbidities of the individual patient must be considered during preoperative planning and management. This article provides an overview of the diverse problem-solving strategies discussed in today's literature. It is generally acknowledged that any decision to perform surgery on an osteoporotic fracture is strongly case-dependent. Treating physicians must therefore master the complete therapeutic spectrum in order to meet this complex orthopedic challenge appropriately.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Back Pain / surgery*
  • Fractures, Spontaneous / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Lumbar Vertebrae / injuries*
  • Lumbar Vertebrae / surgery*
  • Osteoporosis / surgery*
  • Spinal Fractures / surgery*
  • Spinal Stenosis / surgery
  • Thoracic Vertebrae / injuries*
  • Thoracic Vertebrae / surgery*