Treatment options for osteoporotic fractures of the thoracic spine

Osteoporotic fractures of the thoracic spine can lead to deformities, which may affect the complete musculoskeletal system. In the majority of cases conservative treatment is the therapy of choice. Interdisciplinary concepts are necessary. Antiosteoporotic medication, analgetic drugs and physiotherapy form today's standard therapeutic regimen. Persistent pain and severe fracture patterns, however, require additional operative treatment. In cases of osteoporotic compressive fractures vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty have proven to be appropriate treatment options. Unstable fractures and stenosis with consecutive neurological deficits ultimately require spondylodesis, where the reduced bone quality in osteoporosis must be considered.