[Translated article] Osteoporotic vertebral fractures: Natural history and impact

Abstract

Osteoporosis, and the consequences derived from it, such as fragility fractures, constitute a growing public health problem. Suffering from a fracture of this nature is the main risk factor for suffering a new fracture.

It is documented that vertebral compression fractures lead to significant morbidity and mortality, in the short and long term, as well as other complications, such as sagittal imbalance and hyperkyphosis of the segment. However, we have not found documentation that analyzes the medium and long-term consequences of these injuries, assessing the type of treatment used, and the economic impact they represent.

The purpose of this review is to analyse the main recent literature on the subject and make a breakdown of the consequences of these fractures in various spheres, such as economic, quality of life, sagittal balance and radiographic parameters, pain or mortality; as well as a brief analysis of epidemiology and natural history.

Conclusion

Osteoporotic fractures constitute an emerging problem, both in the medical and economic fields. The consequences and sequelae on the patient are multiple and although surgical options offer good long-term results, it is necessary to properly select the patient, through multidisciplinary teams, to try to minimise potential complications.