Osteoporotic fractures spine

Vertebral fractures are common in the elderly and in women in the post menopausal period. Such fractures can have as cause osteoporosis or be due to trauma, infection or neoplasia. Osteoporosis is characterized by decreased bone mass and modified microarchitecture, the most common manifestation of a pathological fracture. Presenting clinical manifestation as pain, height loss and misalignment of the spine, neurological symptoms, and change in self-esteem and social problems. The diagnosis of osteoporosis is given by bone densitometry, this being the gold standard, and we can make use of other imaging methods in specific situations. Treatment of osteoporosis includes methods for the prevention of fractures, such as treatment with calcium and vitamin D, use of bisphosphonates, parathyroid hormone and hormone replacement. When in the presence of fracture, the preferred approach is still nonsurgical approach being taken by immobilization, analgesics, physical therapy and motor rehabilitation. When in the presence of neurologic deficit, severe deformity or lack of response to conservative treatment require surgical approach.