The aging spine: new technologies and therapeutics for the osteoporotic spine.

Lane, Joseph M; Gardner, Michael J; Lin, Julie T; van der Meulen, Marjolein C; Myers, Elizabeth · Eur Spine J · 2003

review · Level V

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Abstract

Osteoporosis results in low-energy fractures of the spine. The load necessary to cause a vertebral fracture is determined by the characteristics related to the vertebral body structure, mineral content, and quality of bone. Radiographic techniques centered on dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) permit a determination of bone mass and fracture risk. Current medical therapies principally using bisphosphonate and pulsatile PTH profoundly decrease the risk of fracture (50+%). Fall prevention strategies can further decrease the possibility of fracture. A comprehensive approach to osteoporosis can favorably alter the disease.

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