The nonskeletal consequences of osteoporotic fractures. Psychologic and social outcomes

Bone damage and health-related quality of life in Hodgkin lymphoma survivors: closing the gaps

In the recent decades, remarkable successes have been recorded in the treatment of Hodgkin's lymphoma to the point that today it represents one of the neoplasms with the highest rates of cure and with the highest life expectancy. Nonetheless, this raises the concern for the health of long- term survivors. Late side effects of treatments in synergy with other risk factors expose survivors to increased morbidity and impaired quality of life. In the complexity of the topics concerning these last aspects, an area of growing interest is that of bone damage that follows Hodgkin Lymphoma and its treatments. In this narrative review, we conducted our work through assessment of available evidence focusing on several aspects linking bone damage and quality of life with Hodgkin lymphoma and its treatments. At present, the problem of osteopenia and osteoporosis in Hodgkin lymphoma survivors is a theme for which awareness and knowledge need to be implemented.

Artificial Intelligence Applications for Osteoporosis Classification Using Computed Tomography

Osteoporosis, marked by low bone mineral density (BMD) and a high fracture risk, is a major health issue. Recent progress in medical imaging, especially CT scans, offers new ways of diagnosing and assessing osteoporosis. This review examines the use of AI analysis of CT scans to stratify BMD and diagnose osteoporosis. By summarizing the relevant studies, we aimed to assess the effectiveness, constraints, and potential impact of AI-based osteoporosis classification (severity) via CT. A systematic search of electronic databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, Web of Science, ClinicalTrials.gov) was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A total of 39 articles were retrieved from the databases, and the key findings were compiled and summarized, including the regions analyzed, the type of CT imaging, and their efficacy in predicting BMD compared with conventional DXA studies. Important considerations and limitations are also discussed. The overall reported accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of AI in classifying osteoporosis using CT images ranged from 61.8% to 99.4%, 41.0% to 100.0%, and 31.0% to 100.0% respectively, with areas under the curve (AUCs) ranging from 0.582 to 0.994. While additional research is necessary to validate the clinical efficacy and reproducibility of these AI tools before incorporating them into routine clinical practice, these studies demonstrate the promising potential of using CT to opportunistically predict and classify osteoporosis without the need for DEXA.

Hormones and Aging: An Endocrine Society Scientific Statement

Multiple changes occur across various endocrine systems as an individual ages. The understanding of the factors that cause age-related changes and how they should be managed clinically is evolving. This statement reviews the current state of research in the growth hormone, adrenal, ovarian, testicular, and thyroid axes, as well as in osteoporosis, vitamin D deficiency, type 2 diabetes, and water metabolism, with a specific focus on older individuals. Each section describes the natural history and observational data in older individuals, available therapies, clinical trial data on efficacy and safety in older individuals, key points, and scientific gaps. The goal of this statement is to inform future research that refines prevention and treatment strategies in age-associated endocrine conditions, with the goal of improving the health of older individuals.

Elevated Red Blood Cell Distribution Width Is Associated with Poor Prognosis in Fractured Patients Admitted to Intensive Care Units

OBJECTIVES

Red blood cell distribution width (RDW) with prognosis in various infectious diseases. For fractured patients admitted to the intensive care units (ICU), an accurate and fast appraisal is essential. To investigate the association between RDW and prognosis in fractured patients admitted to the ICU utilizing the MIMIC-III database.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort from the MIMIC III database from 2001 and 2012 was constructed. RDW and other information were collected with in-hospital mortality as the primary outcome and 90-day mortality and hospital and intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay (LOS) as secondary outcomes. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models with propensity score inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) were used to investigate the prognostic value of RDW. A nomogram was built with significant prognostic factors to predict in-hospital mortality, and the performance of the nomogram was evaluated and compared with other severity assessment scores. Subgroup analysis was also conducted.

RESULTS

A total of 2721 fracture patients admitted to the ICU were identified. After IPTW, the group with higher RDW was significantly associated with elevated in-hospital mortality (odds ratio [OR]: 1.68, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.19-2.37), 90-day mortality (OR: 1.39, 95% CI: 1.04-1.86), prolonged hospital LOS (OR: 1.25, 95% CI: 1.03-1.50), and ICU LOS significantly (OR: 1.26, 95% CI: 1.05-1.53) in the multivariate logistics model. The nomogram showed optimal discriminative ability and predictive accuracy with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.77.

CONCLUSION

RDW independently predicted in-hospital mortality, 90-day mortality, and hospital and ICU LOS in fractured patients admitted to ICU. The nomogram including RDW could also be a promising tool with potential clinical benefits.

The Effects of Er Xian Decoction Combined with Baduanjin Exercise on Bone Mineral Density, Lower Limb Balance Function, and Mental Health in Women with Postmenopausal Osteoporosis: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background

Postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMOP) is a common disease in older women that can severely jeopardize their health. Previous studies have demonstrated the effect of Er xian decoction (EXD) or Baduanjin exercise (BE) on PMOP. However, reports on the effect of EXD combined with BE on PMOP are limited. This study aimed to investigate the impact of EXD combined with BE on bone mineral density (BMD), lower limb balance, and mental health in women with PMOP.

Methods

A 1 : 1 : 1 simple randomization technique was employed. Fifty participants with postmenopausal osteoporosis were allocated to three groups: the EXD group (EXD = 15); the BE group (BE = 18); and the combined group (EXD + BE = 17). After both 8 weeks and 16 weeks of intervention treatment, participants improved significantly with respect to BMD and the one-leg standing test (OLST), Berg balance scale (BBS), timed up and go (TUG) test, self-anxiety scale (SAS), and self-rating depression scale (SDS). The results were used to compare the effect of the intervention on BMD, lower limb balance function, and mental health in patients with PMOP.

Results

Compared to the EXD and BE groups, the EXD + BE group showed the strongest effects on BMD, lower limb balance function, and mental health (p < 0.01). A correlation between BMD and lower limb balance and mental health was noted in the EXD + BE group. The change in mental health (SAS score) was correlated with BMD (femoral neck) improvement.

Conclusions

The present study demonstrates that EXD combined with BE (EXD + BE) may have a therapeutic advantage over both monotherapies for treating BMD, lower limb balance function, and mental health in patients with PMOP. The feasibility of the approach for a large-scale RCT was also confirmed. Er xian decoction combined with Baduanjin exercise (EXD + BE) might offer a viable treatment alternative for participants with postmenopausal osteoporosis given its promising effects in disease control and treatment, with good efficacy and safety profiles.

EVALUATION OF MANAGEMENT OF PATIENTS WITH OSTEOPOROTIC FRACTURES BY ORTHOPEDIC RESIDENTS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL OBSERVATIONAL STUDY

Objective:

To assess whether residents (R1, R2, or R3 - according to the year of residency) of a tertiary orthopedic service investigate, treat and/or refer the patient with osteoporotic fracture for osteoporosis (OP) treatment and whether this learning is improved over the years of residency.

Methods:

Residents answered diagnostic and therapeutic questions related to a clinical case of osteoporotic fracture (OF) in 4 settings, which were initial care in the emergency room, at discharge, during outpatient follow-up at 3 and 6 months. Responses were compared between years of residency.

Results:

Twenty R1, 21 R2, and 19 R3 raised the questions. One resident treated osteoporosis in R1, two in R2, and four in R3. Seventy-five percent of R1, 90.5% of R2, and 68% of R3 referred patients for OP treatment. Over the years, there has been improved prescribing lab tests for osteoporosis (p = 0.028), with 52.6% of third-year residents prescribing adequate lab tests. In the same period, 100% of R3 correctly prescribed prophylaxis for deep vein thrombosis (p = 0.001).

Conclusion:

There is learning, but not enough, for secondary prevention of FO. Level of Evidence I; Prospective Comparative Study.

Vertebral fracture as a risk factor for self-harm: a retrospective cohort study

Background

The prevention of self-harm is an international public health priority. It is vital to identify at-risk populations, particularly as self-harm is a risk factor for suicide. This study aims to examine the risk of self-harm in people with vertebral fractures.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study. Patients with vertebral fracture were identified within the Clinical Practice Research Datalink and matched to patients without fracture by sex and age. Incident self-harm was defined by primary care record codes following vertebral fracture. Overall incidence rates (per 10,000 person-years (PY)) were reported. Cox regression analysis determined risk (hazard ratios (HR), 95 % confidence interval (CI)) of self-harm compared to the matched unexposed cohort. Initial crude analysis was subsequently adjusted and stratified by median age and sex.

Results

The number of cases of vertebral fracture was 16,293, with a matched unexposed cohort of the same size. Patients were predominantly female (70.1 %), median age was 76.3 years. Overall incidence of self-harm in the cohort with vertebral fracture was 12.2 (10.1, 14.8) /10,000 PY. There was an initial crude association between vertebral fracture and self-harm, which remained after adjustment (HR 2.4 (95 %CI 1.5, 3.6). Greatest risk of self-harm was found in those with vertebral fractures who were aged below 76.3 years (3.2(1.8, 5.7)) and male (3.9(1.8, 8.5)).

Conclusions

Primary care patients with vertebral fracture are at increased risk of self-harm compared to people without these fractures. Male patients aged below 76 years of age appear to be at greatest risk of self-harm. Clinicians need to be aware of the potential for self-harm in this patient group.

Management of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women: the 2021 position statement of The North American Menopause Society

OBJECTIVE

To review evidence regarding osteoporosis screening, prevention, diagnosis, and management in the past decade and update the position statement published by The North American Menopause Society (NAMS) in 2010 regarding the management of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women as new therapies and paradigms have become available.

DESIGN

NAMS enlisted a panel of clinician experts in the field of metabolic bone diseases and/or women's health to review and update the 2010 NAMS position statement and recommendations on the basis of new evidence and clinical judgement. The panel's recommendations were reviewed and approved by the NAMS Board of Trustees.

RESULTS

Osteoporosis, especially prevalent in older postmenopausal women, increases the risk of fractures that can be associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Postmenopausal bone loss, related to estrogen deficiency, is the primary contributor to osteoporosis. Other important risk factors for postmenopausal osteoporosis include advanced age, genetics, smoking, thinness, and many diseases and drugs that impair bone health. An evaluation of these risk factors to identify candidates for osteoporosis screening and recommending nonpharmacologic measures such as good nutrition (especially adequate intake of protein, calcium, and vitamin D), regular physical activity, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are appropriate for all postmenopausal women. For women at high risk for osteoporosis, especially perimenopausal women with low bone density and other risk factors, estrogen or other therapies are available to prevent bone loss. For women with osteoporosis and/or other risk factors for fracture, including advanced age and previous fractures, the primary goal of therapy is to prevent new fractures. This is accomplished by combining nonpharmacologic measures, drugs to increase bone density and to improve bone strength, and strategies to reduce fall risk. If pharmacologic therapy is indicated, government-approved options include estrogen agonists/antagonists, bisphosphonates, RANK ligand inhibitors, parathyroid hormone-receptor agonists, and inhibitors of sclerostin.

CONCLUSIONS

Osteoporosis is a common disorder in postmenopausal women. Management of skeletal health in postmenopausal women involves assessing risk factors for fracture, reducing modifiable risk factors through dietary and lifestyle changes, and the use of pharmacologic therapy for patients at significant risk of osteoporosis or fracture. For women with osteoporosis, lifelong management is necessary. Treatment decisions occur continuously over the lifespan of a postmenopausal woman. Decisions must be individualized and should include the patient in the process of shared decision-making.

Social Contribution and Psychological Well-Being among Midlife Adults with Chronic Pain: A Longitudinal Approach

Objectives: Contributing to the welfare of others has been shown to have positive effects on people's social and psychological well-being (PWB). The current study examined whether social contribution (SC) could alleviate the negative effects of chronic pain on PWB through perceived social support (PSS) among midlife and older adults. Methods: The study consisted of 520 participants with chronic pain from the two waves of the Midlife in the United States dataset (MIDUS II and III). Results: Results from the longitudinal moderated mediation analysis indicated that SC at Time 2 (T2) significantly buffered the negative effect of pain interference (PI) at Time 1 (T1) on PSS at T2, which indirectly alleviated the negative effect of PI at T1 on PWB at T2. Discussion: The study suggested the protective role of SC and prosocial behaviors in mitigating the detrimental effects of chronic pain on social support and PWB.

Effects of a resistance and balance exercise programme on physical fitness, health-related quality of life and fear of falling in older women with osteoporosis and vertebral fracture: a randomized controlled trial

Exercise is recommended for people with osteoporosis, but the effect for people who have suffered vertebral fracture is uncertain. This study shows that a multicomponent exercise-program based on recommendations for people with osteoporosis improved muscle strength, balance, and fear of falling in older women with osteoporosis and vertebral fracture.

INTRODUCTION

Guidelines for exercise strongly recommend that older adults with osteoporosis or osteoporotic vertebral fracture should engage in a multicomponent exercise programme that includes resistance training in combination with balance training. Prior research is scarce and shows inconsistent findings. This study examines whether current exercise guidelines for osteoporosis, when applied to individuals with vertebral fractures, can improve health outcomes.

METHODS

This single blinded randomized controlled trial included 149 older women diagnosed with osteoporosis and vertebral fracture, 65+ years. The intervention group performed a 12-week multicomponent exercise programme, the control group received usual care. Primary outcome was habitual walking speed, secondary outcomes were physical fitness (Senior Fitness Test, Functional Reach and Four Square Step Test), health-related quality of life and fear of falling. Descriptive data was reported as mean (standard deviation) and count (percent). Data were analyzed following intention to treat principle and per protocol. Between-group differences were assessed using linear regression models (ANCOVA analysis).

RESULTS

No statistically significant difference between the groups were found on the primary outcome, walking speed (mean difference 0.04 m/s, 95% CI - 0.01-0.09, p = 0.132). Statistically significant between-group differences in favour of intervention were found on FSST (dynamic balance) (mean difference - 0.80 s, 95% CI - 1.57 to - 0.02, p = 0.044), arm curl (mean difference 1.55, 95% CI 0.49-2.61, p = 0.005) and 30-s STS (mean difference 1.85, 95% CI 1.04-2.67, p < 0.001), as well as fear of falling (mean difference - 1.45, 95% CI - 2.64 to - 0.26, p = 0.018). No statistically significant differences between the groups were found on health-related quality of life.

CONCLUSION

Twelve weeks of a supervised multicomponent resistance and balance exercise programme improves muscle strength and balance and reduces fear of falling, in women with osteoporosis and a history of vertebral fractures.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClincialTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02781974. Registered 25.05.16. Retrospectively registered.

The evidentiary basis of vertebral augmentation: a 2019 update

No aspect of neurointerventional practice has been associated with as longstanding contention and debate as to its effectiveness as has vertebroplasty (VP). Four blinded randomized controlled trials published since 2009 have demonstrated conflicting results regarding a conferred benefit in pain reduction and functional improvement for patients who undergo VP for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures. Significant heterogeneity exists between each of these trials, which has resulted in difficulty for interventionalists and surgeons to translate the trial findings into routine clinical practice. In addition, patients and their families are ever more enlightened and enabled via the internet and social media to review both medical literature and websites. Without the proper background and context, their decisions may be lacking appropriate and necessary scientific discussion. This review article summarizes the randomized controlled trial data to date, with particular focus on the aforementioned four blinded studies. We will also evaluate the profound impact of the decrease in vertebral augmentation utilization on short- and long-term patient morbidity and mortality using available national and administrative datasets from both within the USA and internationally. We also consider future trial design to help evaluate this procedure and determine its role in modern neurointerventional practice.

Prospective and Multicenter Evaluation of Outcomes for Quality of Life and Activities of Daily Living for Balloon Kyphoplasty in the Treatment of Vertebral Compression Fractures: The EVOLVE Trial

BACKGROUND

Osteoporotic and neoplastic vertebral compression fractures (VCF) are common and painful, threatening quality of life and increasing risk of morbidity and mortality. Balloon kyphoplasty is a percutaneous option for treating painful cancer- and osteoporosis-related VCFs, supported by 2 randomized trials demonstrating efficacy benefits of BKP over nonsurgical care.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate 12-mo disability, quality of life, and safety outcomes specifically in a Medicare-eligible population, representing characteristic patients seen in routine clinical practice.

METHODS

A total of 354 patients with painful VCFs were enrolled at 24 US sites with 350 undergoing kyphoplasty. Four coprimary endpoints—Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) back pain, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Short Form-36 Questionnaire Physical Component Summary (SF-36v2 PCS), EuroQol-5-Domain (EQ-5D)—were evaluated for statistically significant improvement 3 mo after kyphoplasty. Data were collected at baseline, 7 d, and 1, 3, 6, and 12 mo (www.clinicaltrials.gov registration NCT01871519).

RESULTS

At the 3-mo primary endpoint, NRS improved from 8.7 to 2.7 and ODI improved from 63.4 to 27.1; SF-36 PCS was 24.2 at baseline improving to 36.6, and EQ-5D improved from 0.383 to 0.746 (P < .001 for each). These outcomes were statistically significant at every follow-up time point. Five device-/procedure-related adverse events, intraoperative asymptomatic balloon rupture, rib pain, and aspiration pneumonia, and a new VCF 25 d postprocedure, and myocardial infarction 105 d postprocedure were reported and each resolved with proper treatment.

CONCLUSION

This large, prospective, clinical study demonstrates that kyphoplasty is a safe, effective, and durable procedure for treating patients with painful VCF due to osteoporosis or cancer.

A systematic review of the measurement properties of patient reported outcome measures used for adults with an ankle fracture

BACKGROUND

Ankle fractures are painful and debilitating injuries that pose a significant burden to society and healthcare systems. Patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) are commonly used outcome measures in clinical trials of interventions for ankle fracture but there is little evidence on their validity and reliability. This systematic review aims to identify and appraise evidence for the measurement properties of ankle specific PROMs used in adults with an ankle fracture using Consensus Based Standards for the Selection of Health Measurement Instrument (COSMIN) methodology.

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE, Embase and CINAHL online databases for evidence of measurement properties of ankle specific PROMs. Articles were included if they assessed or described the development of the PROM in adults with ankle fracture. Articles were ineligible if they used the PROM to assess the measurement properties of another instrument. Abstracts without full articles and conference proceedings were ineligible, as were articles that adapted the PROM under evaluation without any formal justification of the changes as part of a cross-cultural validation or translation process. Two reviewers completed the screening. To assess methodological quality we used COSMIN risk of bias checklist and summarised evidence using COSMIN quality criteria and a modified Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. Two reviewers assessed the methodological quality and extracted the data for a sample of articles.

RESULTS

The searches returned a total of 377 articles. From these, six articles were included after application of eligibility criteria. These articles evaluated three PROMs: A-FORM, OMAS and AAOS. The A-FORM had evidence of a robust development process within the patient population, however lacks post-formulation testing. The OMAS showed sufficient levels of reliability, internal consistency and construct validity. The AAOS showed low quality evidence of sufficient construct validity.

CONCLUSIONS

There is insufficient evidence to support the recommendation of a particular PROM for use in adult ankle fracture research based on COSMIN methodology. Further validation of these outcome measures is required in order to ensure PROMs used in this area are sufficiently valid and reliable to assess treatment effects. This would enable high quality, evidenced-based management of adults with ankle fracture.

PROFILE OF PATIENTS WITH OSTEOPOROTIC FRACTURES AND FACTORS THAT DECREASE PREVENTION

Objective:

To evaluate the epidemiological profile of patients with osteoporotic fractures compared to patients with osteoarthritis (OA) and identify factors that diminish adherence to secondary prevention.

Methods:

A total of 108 patients with osteoporotic fractures (OF) were compared to 86 patients with OA.

Results:

Patients in the OF group were older (p < 0.001); had a lower body mass index (p < 0.001); were less literate (p = 0.012); were more frequently Caucasian (p = 0.003); were less frequently married (p < 0.001); experienced more falls, cognitive deficiency, previous fractures, old fracture, falls in the last year, and fall fractures; needed more help and took more medicine for osteoporosis (p < 0.05); and showed less pathology in the feet, muscle weakness, less vitamin D intake, and lower Katz & Lawton scores (p < 0.001). Factors that increased the chance of nonadherence included older age (p = 0.020), falls (p = 0.035), cognitive deficiency (p = 0.044), and presence of depression/apathy/confusion (p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Patient age, ethnicity, marital status, previous falls, foot pathologies, muscle weakness, previous fractures, use of vitamin D, use of osteoporosis drugs, and lower Katz & Lawton scale score defined the OF group. Factors that increased the chance of nonadherence included older age, sedative use, cognitive disorders, and symptoms of depression/apathy/confusion. Level of Evidence III, Case-control.

Management of vertebral fragility fractures: a clinical care pathway developed by a multispecialty panel using the RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

Vertebral fragility fractures (VFFs), mostly due to osteoporosis, are very common and are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. There is a lack of consensus on the appropriate management of patients with or suspected of having a VFF.

PURPOSE

This work aimed at developing a comprehensive clinical care pathway (CCP) for VFF.

STUDY DESIGN/SETTING

The RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method was used to develop patient-specific recommendations for the various components of the CCP. The study included two individual rating rounds and two plenary discussion sessions.

METHODS

A multispecialty expert panel (orthopedic and neurosurgeons, interventional [neuro]radiologists and pain specialists) assessed the importance of 20 signs and symptoms for the suspicion of VFF, the relevance of 5 diagnostic procedures, the appropriateness of vertebral augmentation versus nonsurgical management for 576 clinical scenarios, and the adequacy of 6 aspects of follow-up care.

RESULTS

The panel identified 10 signs and symptoms believed to be relatively specific for VFF. In patients suspected of VFF, advanced imaging was considered highly desirable, with MRI being the preferred diagnostic modality. Vertebral augmentation was considered appropriate in patients with positive findings on advanced imaging and in whom symptoms had worsened and in patients with 2 to 4 unfavorable conditions (eg, progression of height loss and severe impact on functioning), dependent on their relative weight. Time since fracture was considered less relevant for treatment choice. Follow-up should include evaluation of bone mineral density and treatment of osteoporosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Using the RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method, a multispecialty expert panel established a comprehensive CCP for the management of VFF. The CCP may be helpful to support decision-making in daily clinical practice and to improve quality of care.

Metasynthesis of Patient Attitudes Toward Bone Densitometry

BACKGROUND

Bone densitometry (e.g., dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry or "DXA") is strongly associated with osteoporosis treatment; however, rates of DXA are low. While studies have demonstrated a continued need for primary care provider education on the role of DXA in preventive care, little is known about the role of patient attitudes toward DXA. This review's purpose is to synthesize the evidence about the effects of patient perceptions and experiences of DXA on osteoporosis prevention.

METHODS

A metasynthesis was conducted of English language, peer-reviewed publications, searching relevant databases: MEDLINE, CINAHL, Web of Science Social Science Citation Index, PsycINFO, and Sociological Abstracts. Identified articles' quality was appraised using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) Qualitative Checklist, and an iterative process of data evaluation, integration, and synthesis was used to develop the findings.

RESULTS

Thirteen articles from ten studies were identified, composing an aggregated sample of 265 people (231 women). Participant attitudes toward screening ranged from receptive to ambivalent to concerned about results. Participants' understandings of DXA and its role in clinical care were limited. Knowledge of osteoporosis was also partial and influenced by lay sources, the media, and health care providers. Primary care providers strongly influenced participant behavior, especially if participants had a more passive approach to health care. Participants reported less concern about expected barriers of health care access and cost.

CONCLUSION

Minimal knowledge exists of patient perceptions and experiences of DXA among those who are fracture naïve: Prior research has focused primarily on secondary fracture prevention contexts. Our metasynthesis reveals patients' significant reliance, given their limited risk appraisal and knowledge, upon primary care providers in decision-making. We urge colleagues to conduct qualitative research on DXA barriers among general primary care population in order to facilitate health care delivery systems better equipped to diagnose and treat patients before their first fracture.

Effect of a resistance and balance exercise programme for women with osteoporosis and vertebral fracture: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Osteoporotic vertebral fractures are common, and are associated with reduced functioning and health related quality of life. The primary aims of this randomized controlled trial are to examine the immediate and long-term effects of a 12-weeks supervised group exercise programme on habitual walking speed in older women with osteoporosis and a history of vertebral fracture. The secondary aims are to examine the immediate and long-term effects of the exercise program on physical fitness, fear of falling and quality of life.

METHODS

The study is a single-blinded randomized controlled trial. Women aged 65 years or older with osteoporosis and a history of vertebral fracture are included. The intervention group receives a 12-week multicomponent exercise programme, including resistance training combined with balance training. The control group receives usual care. Adherence to the programme will be of importance for the internal validity of the study. Participants in the exercise group who don't attend will be followed up with motivational phone calls. The primary outcome is habitual walking speed over 10 m. Secondary outcomes are health related quality of life (Qualeffo-41, SF-36), physical activity (I-PAQ), Patient Specific Functional Scale, Fear of falling (FES-1) and physical fitness (Senior Fitness test, Functional reach test, 4 square step test, grip strength). Sample size, based on the primary outcome, is 150 participants randomized into the two arms on a 1:1 allocation, including an estimated 20% drop out. Descriptive data will be reported as mean (standard deviation), median (range) or count (percent) as appropriate. The data will be analysed following the intention-to-treat principle. Between group differences in primary and secondary outcomes at 3 months follow-up will be assessed using linear regression models with respective outcome at baseline as covariate and the randomised group as factor.

DISCUSSION

This trial will generate new knowledge on the effects of a multicomponent exercise programme among women over 65 years with osteoporosis and a history of vertebral fracture, knowledge that is of importance for clinicians, health managers and policy makers.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClincialTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02781974 . Registered 18.05.16. Retrospectively registered.

Subsequent Fracture Prevention in Patients 50 Years and Older With Fragility Fractures: A Quality Improvement Initiative

Because of osteoporosis, patients older than 50 years with fragility fractures are at risk of further fractures. We developed a quality improvement initiative based on an evidence-based Fracture Liaison Service (FLS) model of care to help prevent subsequent fractures. Previous to the implemented FLS model, less than 13% of patients with fragility fractures were assessed for osteoporosis at our institution. We created a registry tool to identify patients with fractures who were older than 50 years. Our interventions focused on identifying, contacting, and educating patients; and coordinating screening tests and an outpatient follow-up visit with an endocrinologist. Identification of patients older than 50 years with fragility fractures increased from 0% to 74.5%, with implementation of the fracture registry. Of those identified, 33.9% were screened and had a follow-up visit. The fragility fracture population older than 50 years is at risk of subsequent fractures and should be identified, contacted, educated, screened, and assessed for osteoporosis to prevent subsequent fractures.

The importance of physical function to people with osteoporosis

There is increasing need to understand patient outcomes in osteoporosis. This article discusses that fracture in osteoporosis can lead to a cycle of impairment, driven by complex psychosocial factors, having a profound impact on physical function/activity which accumulates over time. More information is required on how treatments impact physical function.

INTRODUCTION

There is increasing need to understand patient-centred outcomes in osteoporosis (OP) clinical research and management. This multi-method paper provides insight on the effect of OP on patients' physical function and everyday activity.

METHODS

Data were collected from three sources: (1) targeted literature review on OP and physical function, conducted in MEDLINE, Embase and PsycINFO; (2) secondary thematic analysis of transcripts from patient interviews, conducted to develop a patient-reported outcome instrument. Transcripts were re-coded to focus on OP impact on daily activities and physical function for those with and without fracture history; and (3) discussions of the literature review and secondary qualitative analysis results with three clinical experts to review and interpret the importance and implications of the findings.

RESULTS

Results suggest that OP, particularly with fracture, can have profound impacts on physical function/activity. These impacts accumulate over time through a cycle of impairment, as fracture leads to longer term detriments in physical function, including loss of muscle, activity avoidance and reduced physical capacity, which in turn leads to greater risk of fracture and potential for further physical restrictions. The cycle of impairment is complex, as other physical, psychosocial and treatment-related factors, such as comorbidities, fears and beliefs about physical activity and fracture risk influence physical function and everyday activity.

CONCLUSION

More information on how treatments impact physical function would benefit healthcare professionals and persons with OP in making treatment decisions and improving treatment compliance/persistence, as these impacts may be more salient to patients than fracture incidence.

How Can Osteoporosis Patients Benefit More from Their Therapy? Adherence Issues with Bisphosphonate Therapy

Objective:

To review the evidence on adherence with bisphosphonates and evolving dosing strategies for osteoporosis treatment.

Data Sources:

Articles were identified by searching MEDLINE (1975–December 2005) using the following terms: osteoporosis, postmenopausal, fracture, adherence, compliance, persistence, drug therapy, bisphosphonates, alendronate, risedronate, ibandronate, and zoledronate. Additional data included bibliographies from identified articles.

Study Selection and Data Extraction:

All pertinent English-language articles that discussed adherence issues in patients with osteoporosis were included. Both those that reviewed overall issues of medication adherence in osteoporosis and those that focused specifically on adherence to bisphosphonates were included, as were articles that addressed strategies for overcoming nonadherence.

Data Synthesis:

Inadequate diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis result in a higher risk of fractures than is necessary. Even patients who are diagnosed and beginning treatment often do not persist with their osteoporosis medication because they perceive their fracture risk to be low and, given the asymptomatic nature of osteoporosis, do not experience the benefit of symptom reduction after taking the drugs. Factors that affect adherence to osteoporosis therapy include drug costs, adverse effects, dosing frequency, disease education, patient follow-up, and patient involvement in treatment decisions.

Conclusions:

By considering and implementing strategies that can improve adherence and persistence, primary care providers and pharmacists (via counseling) may enhance long-term outcomes for patients with osteoporosis.

Predicting delayed union in osteoporotic vertebral fractures with consecutive magnetic resonance imaging in the acute phase: a multicenter cohort study

This study demonstrated the predictive values of radiological findings for delayed union after osteoporotic vertebral fractures (OVFs). High-signal changes on T2WI were useful findings.

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of the present study is to determine predictive radiological findings for delayed union by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and plain X-rays at two time points in the acute phase of OVFs.

METHODS

This multicenter cohort study was performed from 2012 to 2015. A total of 218 consecutive patients with OVFs ≤2 weeks old were enrolled. MRIs and plain X-rays were performed at the time of enrollment and at 1- and 6-month follow-ups. Signal changes on T1-weighted imaging (T1WI) were classified as diffuse low-, confined low-, or no-signal change; those on T2WI were classified as high (similar to the intensity of cerebrospinal fluid), confined low-, diffuse low-, or no-signal change. The angular motion of the fractured vertebral body was measured with X-rays.

RESULTS

A total of 153 patients completed the 6-month follow-up. A high-signal change on T2WI was most useful in predicting delayed union. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive values were 53.3, 87.8, and 51.6 % at enrollment and 65.5, 84.8, and 51.4 % at the 1-month follow-up, respectively. The positive predictive value increased to 62.5 % with observation of high- or diffuse low-signal changes at both enrollment and the 1-month follow-up. The cutoff value of vertebral motion was 5 degrees. Sensitivity and specificity at enrollment were 52.4 and 74.1 %, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated the radiological factors predicting delayed union after an OVF. T2 high-signal changes showed the strongest association with delayed union. Consecutive MRIs were particularly useful as a differential tool to predict delayed union following OVFs.

Incidence of vertebral fractures in calcium and vitamin D-supplemented postmenopausal Brazilian women with osteopenia or osteoporosis: data from Arzoxifene Generations Trial

OBJECTIVE

Vertebral fracture is the most common osteoporotic fracture, affecting quality of life and increasing mortality. Epidemiological data on incidence of vertebral fracture are scarce in Brazil and throughout Latin America. Our aim was to determine vertebral fracture incidence and risk factors in a female Brazilian population.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Postmenopausal women with low bone mass were studied from the Brazilian placebo group of Arzoxifene Generations Trial (n = 974), followed for up to 5 years. The primary endpoint was new vertebral fractures, detected by X-Ray. Experimental design defined two strata: A. Osteoporosis or previous vertebral fracture with osteopenia; B. Osteopenia without previous fracture. Previous fracture, T-score, ionized calcium, alkaline phosphatase, creatinine and glucose were analyzed at baseline. Crude and adjusted incidence rates of vertebral fractures were estimated and Poisson regression model was used.

RESULTS

Incidence rate was 7.7 (95% CI of 5.4 to 10.9) per 1,000 person-years (PY), increasing as a function of age. Women with new vertebral fractures had higher prevalence of previous nonvertebral fracture after menopause, were older and had lower lumbar spine (LS) T-score. Fracture risk increased by 46% for each unit reduction in LS T-score. Variables correlated with new vertebral fracture were age (p = 0.034), LS T-score, stratum A (p = 0.001 for both) and previous nonvertebral fracture after menopause (p = 0.019). In the final model, LS T-score was the strongest predictor.

CONCLUSIONS

Incidence rate of vertebral fracture of 7.7 per 1,000 PY. Age and previous fractures were associated with new vertebral fracture, but LS T-score was the most important predictor.

"Sternum-Into-Abdomen" Deformity With Abdominal Compression Following Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fractures Managed By 2-Level Vertebral Column Resection and Reconstruction

STUDY DESIGN

A unique case report.

OBJECTIVE

To report a case of severe thoracolumbar kyphosis with abdominal compression causing gastric disturbance after treatment of an osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture and its ultimate management by vertebral column resection (VCR). We propose a new terminology "sternum-into-abdomen deformity" to describe this condition.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Management of osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures mainly aims at pain control and deformity reduction. VCR for decreasing abdominal compression due to the development of severe kyphosis after treatment of osteoporotic compression fractures has never been reported in the literature to our knowledge.

METHODS

This is a case report on a single patient. The hospital and office charts were reviewed. Reports of prior treatment of his compression fracture were analyzed.

RESULTS

This 73-year-old cachectic patient underwent vertebroplasty for a midthoracic compression fracture with progressive, severe kyphosis. His condition worsened and spinal reconstruction with a 2-level VCR restored more normal sagittal alignment and decreased his gastric compression. His back pain decreased and his ability to tolerate oral intake returned.

CONCLUSION

We propose the term "sternum-into-abdomen deformity" to describe this type of severe kyphosis with abdominal compression. Treatment with a VCR and fusion for realignment of focal kyphosis can improve the quality of life for patients with this condition.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

5.

Validation of the Malay version of the Quality of Life Questionnaire of the European Foundation for Osteoporosis (QUALEFFO-41) in Malaysia

PURPOSE

To assess the validity and reliability of the Malay version of the Quality of Life (QOL) Questionnaire of the European Foundation for Osteoporosis (QUALEFFO-41) in Malaysia.

METHODS

The QUALEFFO-41 was translated from English to Malay and administered to 215 post-menopausal osteoporotic women ≥50 years who could understand Malay, at baseline and 4 weeks. The SF-36 was administered at baseline to assess convergent validity. To assess discriminative validity, patients with and without back pain were recruited.

RESULTS

Confirmatory factor analysis showed that the QUALEFFO-41 had five domains. Good internal consistency was seen in all domains (0.752-0.925) except for the social activity domain (0.692). Test-retest reliability showed adequate correlation for all items (0.752-0.964, p < 0.001). Patients with back pain had significantly worse QOL compared with those without (back pain = 42.2 ± 10.9, no back pain = 33.3 ± 8.9; p < 0.001). The total QUALEFFO-41 score and the SF-36 physical and mental composite scores were significantly correlated (-0.636 and -0.529, p < 0.001, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The Malay version of the QUALEFFO-41 was found to be a reliable and valid instrument to evaluate the QOL of osteoporotic patients in Malaysia. To enable the QUALEFFO-41 to be used in a multiracial population, further studies should look into validating other versions of the QUALEFFO-41 in Malaysia.

Vertebral size, bone density, and strength in men and women matched for age and areal spine BMD

To explore the possible mechanisms underlying sex-specific differences in skeletal fragility that may be obscured by two-dimensional areal bone mineral density (aBMD) measures, we compared quantitative computed tomography (QCT)-based vertebral bone measures among pairs of men and women from the Framingham Heart Study Multidetector Computed Tomography Study who were matched for age and spine aBMD. Measurements included vertebral body cross-sectional area (CSA, cm(2) ), trabecular volumetric BMD (Tb.vBMD, g/cm(3) ), integral volumetric BMD (Int.vBMD, g/cm(3) ), estimated vertebral compressive loading and strength (Newtons) at L3 , the factor-of-risk (load-to-strength ratio), and vertebral fracture prevalence. We identified 981 male-female pairs (1:1 matching) matched on age (± 1 year) and QCT-derived aBMD of L3 (± 1%), with an average age of 51 years (range 34 to 81 years). Matched for aBMD and age, men had 20% larger vertebral CSA, lower Int.vBMD (-8%) and Tb.vBMD (-9%), 10% greater vertebral compressive strength, 24% greater vertebral compressive loading, and 12% greater factor-of-risk than women (p < 0.0001 for all), as well as higher prevalence of vertebral fracture. After adjusting for height and weight, the differences in CSA and volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD) between men and women were attenuated but remained significant, whereas compressive strength was no longer different. In conclusion, vertebral size, morphology, and density differ significantly between men and women matched for age and spine aBMD, suggesting that men and women attain the same aBMD by different mechanisms. These results provide novel information regarding sex-specific differences in mechanisms that underlie vertebral fragility.

Kyphoplasty increases vertebral height, decreases both pain score and opiate requirements while improving functional status

Vertebral compression fractures can result from advanced osteoporosis, or less commonly from metastatic or traumatic insults to the vertebral column, and result in disabling pain and decreased functional capacity. Various vertebral augmentation options including kyphoplasty aim at preventing the sequelae of pain and immobility that can develop as the result of the vertebral fractures. The mechanism for pain relief following kyphoplasty is not entirely understood, and the restoration of a portion of the lost vertebral height is a subject of debate. We retrospectively reviewed radiographic imaging, pain relief, analgesic intake and functional outcomes in 67 consecutive patients who underwent single- or multilevel kyphoplasty with the primary goal of quantifying the restoration of lost vertebral height. We observed a mean of 45% of the lost vertebral height restored postprocedurally. Secondarily, kyphoplasty was associated with significant decreases in pain scores, daily morphine consumption and improvement in patient-reported functional measures.

New therapeutical horizons in the management of postmenopausal osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a bone metabolic disease characterized by a compromised skeletal fragility, leading to an increased risk of developing spontaneous and traumatic fractures. This disease is the consequence of an imbalance of the physiological process of bone turnover (or coupling), with the lost of the equilibrium between the activity of osteoblasts and osteoclasts. Therapy has been aimed mainly at the correction of the imbalance between bone resorption and bone formation, to protect skeletal integrity and reduce the risk of fractures. Thus, pharmacological treatments have been aimed at modulating the activity of bone cells.

Does percutaneous kyphoplasty have better functional outcome than vertebroplasty in single level osteoporotic compression fractures? A comparative prospective study

Purpose. To evaluate the relative differences in surgical outcome of kyphoplasty (KP) versus vertebroplasty (VP) in the patients with single level refractory osteoporotic compression fractures (OCFs). Method. From August 2008 to May 2012, we intermittently treated 57 patients with single level OCF by PV and KP (Groups A and B, resp.). We used visual analogue scale (VAS) and short form 36 (SF36) questionnaire to measure functional recovery and followed them for six months. Independent samples t- and Kendall's tau-b tests were for statistics. Results. In terms of age, number, and bone mineral density of the patients, there were no significant differences between the two groups. In both groups, VAS and SF-36 scores improved significantly and remained relatively stable throughout the follow-up period. We had 9 and 6 asymptomatic cement extravasations and 5 and 8 new vertebral fractures in Group A and B, respectively. In comparing the two groups, the results indicated that KP almost failed to show any significant higher effect relative to VP during this period. Conclusions. In considering the high cost of KP relative to VP in the developing countries like Iran, there is no logical reason to use KP in a single level refractory OCF in these regions.

The effect of teriparatide compared with risedronate on reduction of back pain in postmenopausal women with osteoporotic vertebral fractures

The effect of teriparatide and risedronate on back pain was tested, and there was no difference in the proportion of patients experiencing a reduction in back pain between groups after 6 or 18 months. Patients receiving teriparatide had greater increases in bone mineral density and had fewer vertebral fractures.

INTRODUCTION

This study aimed to understand the effect of teriparatide in reducing back pain in patients with prevalent back pain and vertebral fracture compared to risedronate.

METHODS

In an 18-month randomized, double-blind, double-dummy trial, we investigated the effects of teriparatide (20 μg/day) vs. risedronate (35 mg/week) in postmenopausal women with back pain likely due to vertebral fracture. The primary objective was to compare the proportion of subjects reporting ≥30% reduction in worst back pain severity from baseline to 6 months as assessed by a numeric rating scale in each treatment group. Pre-specified secondary and exploratory outcomes included assessments of average and worst back pain at additional time points, disability and quality of life, bone mineral density, incidence of fractures, and safety.

RESULTS

At 6 months, 59% of teriparatide and 57% of risedronate patients reported ≥30% reduction in worst back pain and there were no differences between groups in the proportion of patients experiencing reduction in worst or average back pain at any time point, disability, or quality of life. There was a greater increase from baseline in bone mineral density at the lumbar spine (p = 0.001) and femoral neck (p = 0.02) with teriparatide compared to risedronate and a lower incidence of vertebral fractures at 18 months (4% teriparatide and 9% risedronate; p = 0.01). Vertebral fractures were less severe (p = 0.04) in the teriparatide group. There was no difference in the overall incidence of adverse events.

CONCLUSIONS

Although there were no differences in back pain-related endpoints, patients receiving teriparatide had greater skeletal benefit than those receiving risedronate.

Evaluation of trabecular microarchitecture in nonosteoporotic postmenopausal women with and without fracture

This study compared microscopic magnetic resonance imaging (µMRI) parameters of trabecular microarchitecture between postmenopausal women with and without fracture who have normal or osteopenic bone mineral density (BMD) on dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). It included 36 postmenopausal white women 50 years of age and older with normal or osteopenic BMD (T-scores better than -2.5 at the lumbar spine, proximal femur, and one-third radius on DXA). Eighteen women had a history of low-energy fracture, whereas 18 women had no history of fracture and served as an age, race, and ultradistal radius BMD-matched control group. A three-dimensional fast large-angle spin-echo (FLASE) sequence with 137 µm × 137 µm × 400 µm resolution was performed through the nondominant wrist of all 36 women using the same 1.5T scanner. The high-resolution images were used to measure trabecular bone volume fraction, trabecular thickness, surface-to-curve ratio, and erosion index. Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were used to compare differences in BMD and µMRI parameters between postmenopausal women with and without fracture. Post-menopausal women with fracture had significantly lower (p < 0.05) trabecular bone volume fraction and surface-to-curve ratio and significantly higher (p < 0.05) erosion index than postmenopausal women without fracture. There was no significant difference between postmenopausal women with and without fracture in trabecular thickness (p = 0.80) and BMD of the spine (p = 0.21), proximal femur (p = 0.19), one-third radius (p = 0.47), and ultradistal radius (p = 0.90). Postmenopausal women with normal or osteopenic BMD who had a history of low-energy fracture had significantly different (p < 0.05) µMRI parameters than an age, race, and ultradistal radius BMD-matched control group of postmenopausal women with no history of fracture. Our study suggests that µMRI can be used to identify individuals without a DXA-based diagnosis of osteoporosis who have impaired trabecular microarchitecture and thus a heretofore-unappreciated elevated fracture risk.

Measuring health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in osteoporotic males using the Male OPAQ

The Male Osteoporosis Assessment Questionnaire (OPAQ™) is a health-related quality of life (HRQOL) instrument that can differentiate between men with and without fracture. The Male OPAQ™ is a reliable and validated instrument that may be utilized in clinical trials seeking to include male populations.

INTRODUCTION

Men with osteoporosis (OP) experience poorer clinical outcomes than do women with the disorder, but little is known about the impact of OP on men's HRQOL. This study aimed to test the validity, reliability, and ability to differentiate between men with and without fracture of an HRQOL for men with osteoporosis, the Male OPAQ™.

METHODS

The OPAQ and OPAQ-SV were tested for face validity in interviews with male OP patients, and a revised, male-specific instrument was developed. Thirty-seven men ages 50+ completed the Male OPAQ™ and SF-12 at baseline and a two-week retest of the Male OPAQ™. To analyze both the domain and dimension scores, a normalization procedure was performed on the data to determine health status scores from 0 to 100. Descriptive statistics were calculated for each item and site. Reliability and validity of the Male OPAQ™ were assessed using Pearson's r.

RESULTS

The Male OPAQ™ can discriminate between men with and without fracture, and men who have more fractures have poorer scores. Instrument domains correspond to those of the SF-12.

CONCLUSIONS

The Male OPAQ(TM) is a brief and sensitive tool for measuring HRQOL in men with OP. Further testing in a more diverse and large sample is warranted.

The invisible disease: making sense of an osteoporosis diagnosis in older age

Osteoporosis (low bone density) is a potentially serious disease which mainly affects women older than 50 years. National screening programs for osteoporosis are being developed in the United Kingdom. It is important to assess the psychological experience of receiving a positive diagnosis from a population-based screening program so that psychological distress does not outweigh medical benefits. Little research has been conducted in this field. In our study, we explored the experience of being diagnosed with osteoporosis following screening. We interviewed 10 women aged 68 to 79 who were recruited from a population-based osteoporosis screening trial. Four themes emerged from our interpretative phenomenological analysis of the interviews: osteoporosis is a routine medical condition, lack of physical evidence creates doubt, the mediating role of medical care, and protecting the self from distress. Our findings emphasize the complexity attached to receiving a positive screening result. We suggest considerations for health care providers.

Living with a `women's disease': risk appraisal and management among men with osteoporosis

BACKGROUND: There is clear evidence that men suffer from osteoporosis (OP) in increasing numbers, but that men commonly remain underdiagnosed, undertreated and experience poorer outcomes than do women. The widespread sociocultural association of OP with postmenopausal women reflects their greater risk for developing the disorder, but the sexing of OP as a women's disease disadvantages at-risk men. METHODS: This paper reports on qualitative data gathered from 23 community-residing men who have an OP diagnosis. RESULTS: Interviews with men reveal that the sexing of OP as a female disease may affect men's risk appraisal. Men clearly associate OP risk factors with women and accordingly may feel protected from the disorder. Subsequent to diagnosis, men's OP-related risk management strategies reveal that men's gender identity constrains their ability to enact risk-reducing behavior. CONCLUSIONS: Men may internalize the association of OP with women and incorporate it into a sense of perceived invulnerability to the condition, which, in turn, contributes to delayed diagnosis and treatment. Limited male-specific treatment and support options as well as social expectations of male gender performance play roles in men's health behavior.

Initial clinical experience with a novel vertebral augmentation system for treatment of symptomatic vertebral compression fractures: a case series of 26 consecutive patients

Background

Minimally invasive vertebral augmentation procedures are widely used to treat vertebral compression fractures although procedural polymethylmethacrylate cement leakage remains common. We report herein our initial experience with a novel vertebral augmentation technique designed to treat symptomatic vertebral osteoporotic fractures and osteolytic metastases with minimal cement extravasation.

Methods

Forty-two vertebral fractures were identified in 26 consecutive patients (mean age 74 ± 9 years). All patients were treated with a novel percutaneous vertebral augmentation device (Kiva^® VCF Treatment System, Benvenue Medical, Santa Clara, CA, USA). Indications for surgery included recent (≤ 3 months) symptomatic osteoporotic vertebral fracture (n = 34) and pathologic vertebral fractures (e.g. metabolic bone disease, myeloma, metastasis) (n = 8) located between T10 and S1. Patient outcomes were evaluated pre-treatment and at 2- and 6-month follow-up visits. Postoperative cement extravasation was assessed with computed tomography. Patient-reported back pain was quantified using an 11-point numeric scale. Back-specific functional disability was self-reported with the Oswestry Disability Index on a 0 to 100% scale.

Results

No cases of intraoperative hypotension, respiratory disturbance, neurological deterioration, infection, or death were observed. There were 2 (4.8%) levels where anterior cement leakage was visible radiographically in patients with osteolyses. No intracanal leakage was observed. Back pain scores improved 71% (p < 0.001) from pre-treatment to the 6-month follow-up. Back function improved 56% from baseline to 6 months (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The initial clinical experience with the Kiva^® System demonstrated significant improvements in back pain and function with minimal and clinically insignificant procedural cement leakage.

Older men's explanatory model for osteoporosis

PURPOSE

To explore the nature of men's experiences of osteoporosis by developing an understanding of men's explanatory models.

DESIGN AND METHODS

This descriptive study invited community-residing male osteoporosis patients aged 50+ to participate in interviews about osteoporosis. Participants were recruited from a hospital-affiliated bone clinic. Men completed a questionnaire on demographic, medication, and fracture-related information, and descriptive statistics were calculated using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. Interviews elicited the 5 domains of men's explanatory model (Kleinman, 1987) and open-ended information regarding men's experiences living with this disorder. Narrative data were analyzed both for content and inductively.

RESULTS

Men's narratives demonstrate that an osteoporosis diagnosis is accompanied by negative psychosocial sequelae in this population. Men defined it as a disease of the bone that may increase the likelihood of fracture and that may cause pain. Participants reported that osteoporosis is diagnosed by bone mineral density (BMD) score and that disease progression is measured by a decrease in BMD and an increase in pain or new fractures. Men described a reluctance to take medications, dissatisfaction with side effects, and a perception that osteoporosis treatment in men had little basis in long-term medication efficacy or safety data. They viewed osteoporosis as a degenerative chronic disease with an overall stable course.

IMPLICATIONS

Participants' explanatory models for osteoporosis are substantively different than clinical models. These differences provide a foundation for exploring the importance of gender to osteoporosis outcomes, a context for making sense of men's bone health behavior, and a clear case for an increase in advocacy and educational efforts for men who have or are at risk for osteoporosis.

Postmenopausal women with osteoporosis: experience when treated with teriparatide in clinical practice

OBJECTIVE

To observe and compare back pain and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in postmenopausal women with a prior unsatisfactory response to antiresorptive therapy, treated with teriparatide (TPTD) or alternative treatments in normal clinical practice.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Prospective, observational, multicentre, 24-month study of postmenopausal women with osteoporosis. A back pain and HRQoL questionnaire (European Quality of Life Questionnaire, EQ-5D) including visual analogue scale (VAS) was completed at each visit.

RESULTS

A total of 153 patients were enrolled, 105 patients started TPTD treatment during the study (TPTD cohort) and 48 patients did not take TPTD treatment at any time during the study (non-TPTD cohort). Four patients did not meet the inclusion criteria for the study. Of the patients in the non-TPTD cohort, 31 (68.9%) took antiresorptives during the study. The patients selected by the investigator for teriparatide treatment were distinctly different from those not selected. At baseline, the mean back pain VAS was greater in the TPTD than the non-TPTD cohort, 64  mm and 42 mm, respectively (p < 0.001). During the study, compared with baseline, the mean back pain VAS decreased in the TPTD cohort at all visits (p < 0.001). In the non-TPTD cohort, a transitory decrease in the mean after 12 months was observed (-10 mm, p = 0.023) only. After 24 months, the mean back pain VAS improved in the TPTD cohort (-36 mm, p < 0.001) while no change was observed in the non-TPTD cohort (-4 mm, p = 0.467). At baseline, the mean EQ-VAS was lower in the TPTD than in the non-TPTD cohort, 40.8 and 55.2, respectively (p < 0.001). After 24 months, EQ-VAS improved in both cohorts (TPTD 34, p < 0.001 and non-TPTD 9, p = 0.026).

CONCLUSIONS

TPTD-treated patients had more back pain and lower HRQoL at baseline. In the TPTD cohort the mean value was consistently and significantly improved in back pain and quality of life. In the non-TPTD cohort, the mean improvement in back pain and QoL was inconsistent possibly due to the initially higher QoL and lower back pain leaving less room for improvement. These results should be interpreted in the context of limitations related to a non-randomised observational study.

Bazedoxifene: a novel selective estrogen receptor modulator for postmenopausal osteoporosis

Several new selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) are currently under clinical development for the prevention and/or treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis, with the goal of optimizing the estrogen receptor agonist/antagonist activity in target tissues. Bazedoxifene is a novel SERM under clinical investigation for the prevention and treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis. Emerging clinical data have shown that bazedoxifene is effective in preventing bone loss and osteoporotic fractures in postmenopausal women, with no evidence of breast or endometrial stimulation. Two large, prospective, international phase 3 studies have been completed. In postmenopausal women at risk for osteoporosis, bazedoxifene has been shown to preserve bone mineral density and to reduce bone turnover. In postmenopausal women with osteoporosis, bazedoxifene has demonstrated significant protection against new vertebral fractures and against non-vertebral fractures in women at higher fracture risk. The treatment effects of bazedoxifene were supported by findings from independent re-analyses using the Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX), which showed that bazedoxifene significantly reduced the risk of all clinical and morphometric vertebral fracture and of non-vertebral fracture in women at or above a FRAX-based threshold. Bazedoxifene was generally safe and well tolerated in the phase 3 studies and showed neutral effects on the breast and an excellent endometrial safety profile; such attributes allow for the partnering of bazedoxifene with conjugated estrogens for menopausal symptom relief. Collectively, these results suggest that bazedoxifene may be a promising new therapy for the prevention and treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis as a monotherapy or in combination with conjugated estrogens in menopausal hormone therapy.

Efficacy and safety of bazedoxifene, a novel selective estrogen receptor modulator for the prevention and treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis

OBJECTIVE

Osteoporosis affects millions of individuals, particularly postmenopausal women, and imposes a severe burden on patients and the healthcare system. Several therapeutic options are commercially available for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis, including bisphosphonates, hormone therapy, and the selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM), raloxifene. Because each of these agents has its own individual risk-benefit profile, their use should be tailored to specific patient populations. While many agents are approved for osteoporosis, new therapies are needed that maximize efficacy outcomes and minimize safety concerns. Several new SERMs are being evaluated in an effort to achieve an ideal tissue selectivity profile, with beneficial effects on bone without negative effects on the endometrium and breast. Bazedoxifene is a novel SERM that was recently approved in the European Union and is undergoing regulatory review in the United States for the prevention and treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis. This article reviews the clinical efficacy and safety data for bazedoxifene in postmenopausal women with or at risk for osteoporosis.

METHODS

The PubMed database and relevant congress abstract databases were searched to identify all pertinent literature on bazedoxifene for the prevention and/or treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis.

RESULTS

In phase 3 clinical studies, bazedoxifene has demonstrated significant reduction in the risk of new vertebral fracture versus placebo and positive effects on bone mineral density and bone turnover. Moreover, in a subgroup analysis of women at high risk for fracture, bazedoxifene significantly reduced the risk of nonvertebral fracture versus both placebo and raloxifene. Bazedoxifene was generally safe and well-tolerated in women with and at risk for osteoporosis, with no evidence of endometrial or breast stimulation. Data inclusion for this review article was limited by what was available in the public domain.

CONCLUSION

The available clinical data suggest that bazedoxifene may offer a favorable risk-benefit profile for the prevention and treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis.

Management of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women: 2010 position statement of The North American Menopause Society

OBJECTIVE

To update the evidence-based position statement published by The North American Menopause Society (NAMS) in 2006 regarding the management of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women.

METHODS

NAMS followed the general principles established for evidence-based guidelines to create this updated document. A panel of clinicians and researchers expert in the field of metabolic bone diseases and/or women's health was enlisted to review the 2006 NAMS position statement, compile supporting statements, and reach consensus on recommendations. The panel's recommendations were reviewed and approved by the NAMS Board of Trustees.

RESULTS

Osteoporosis, which is especially prevalent among older postmenopausal women, increases the risk of fractures. Hip and spine fractures are associated with particularly high morbidity and mortality in this population. Given the health implications of osteoporotic fractures, the primary goal of osteoporosis therapy is to prevent fractures, which is accomplished by slowing or stopping bone loss, maintaining bone strength, and minimizing or eliminating factors that may contribute to fractures. The evaluation of postmenopausal women for osteoporosis risk requires a medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. Major risk factors for postmenopausal osteoporosis (as defined by bone mineral density) include advanced age, genetics, lifestyle factors (such as low calcium and vitamin D intake, smoking), thinness, and menopause status. The most common risk factors for osteoporotic fracture are advanced age, low bone mineral density, and previous fracture as an adult. Management focuses first on nonpharmacologic measures, such as a balanced diet, adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, adequate exercise, smoking cessation, avoidance of excessive alcohol intake, and fall prevention. If pharmacologic therapy is indicated, government-approved options are bisphosphonates, selective estrogen-receptor modulators, parathyroid hormone, estrogens, and calcitonin.

CONCLUSIONS

Management strategies for postmenopausal women involve identifying those at risk for fracture, followed by instituting measures that focus on reducing modifiable risk factors through dietary and lifestyle changes and, if indicated, pharmacologic therapy.

A striving for independence: a qualitative study of women living with vertebral fracture

BACKGROUND

Quantitative studies using generic and disease-specific health-related quality of life (HRQOL) questionnaires have shown that osteoporosis-related vertebral fractures have a significant negative effect on HRQOL, but there are only few studies that address what it means to live with vertebral fracture from a deeper experiential perspective. How HRQOL and daily life are affected several years after vertebral fracture and how women cope with this are more unclear. This study aimed to describe how HRQOL and daily life had been affected in women with vertebral fracture several years after diagnosis.

METHODS

The study design was qualitative. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten Swedish women during 2008. Data were analysed using qualitative inductive content analysis.

RESULTS

The findings of this study revealed three themes related to the influence on HRQOL and daily life: A threatened independence, i.e. back pain, anxiety, negative impact on self-image and consequences in daily life; Strategies for maintaining independence, i.e. coping, self-care and support; and The importance of maintaining independence, i.e. the ability to perform everyday activities, social interaction and having something meaningful to do. The women were striving for independence or maintaining their independence by trying to manage different types of symptoms and consequences in different ways.

CONCLUSION

HRQOL and daily life were strongly affected in a negative way by the impact of the vertebral fracture. Information from this study may provide new knowledge and understanding of the women's experiences of living with vertebral fracture from an insider's point of view in order to obtain a deeper understanding of the women's everyday life. However, further evaluation is still needed in larger study groups.

Undertreatment of menopausal symptoms and novel options for comprehensive management

OBJECTIVE

There is currently a gap in treatment options for menopausal symptoms and a need for comprehensive therapies that are safe and effective for postmenopausal women. This review discusses challenges in the management of menopausal symptoms and the effect of the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) study findings on current treatment patterns. It also examines present and future therapies.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A literature search was conducted using Medline, the Cochrane Database, and the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute WHI website with the following search terms: primary care, menopause, vasomotor symptoms, hormone therapy, osteoporosis, and vaginal atrophy. Searches were limited to articles published between 1995 and 2009.

RESULTS

Comprehensive therapies that target several aspects of menopause, such as vasomotor symptoms and chronic disease prevention, are currently hormone based. These hormone-based approaches are considered more effective than currently available nonhormonal therapies for the relief of menopausal symptoms. However, hormone therapy is not recommended for women at high risk for venous thromboembolic events, cardiovascular disease, and/or breast cancer. A need exists for novel therapies that mitigate menopausal symptoms, provide protection from osteoporosis, and encourage patient compliance without promoting cancer, heart disease, or stroke. Emerging modalities and strategies, such as the tissue selective estrogen complex (TSEC), Org 50081, MF101, and desvenlafaxine, may provide improved options for postmenopausal women.

CONCLUSIONS

Several new menopausal therapies that may help to address the ongoing unmet need for safe and effective therapies for postmenopausal women are currently in development. In particular, the TSEC, which provides the benefits of both a selective estrogen receptor modulator and conjugated estrogens with an improved tolerability profile, may offer advantages over currently available treatment options. Limitations of this review include the narrow search criteria and limited search period.

Morphometric vertebral fractures of the lower thoracic and lumbar spine, physical function and quality of life in men

The epidemiology and sequelae of morphometric vertebral fracture (MVF) are poorly documented. We found that MVFs of the lower thoracic and lumbar spine were associated with poor quality of life and impaired physical function in men. We recommend that morphometric X-ray absorptiometry be included in routine requests for bone densitometry.

INTRODUCTION

Vertebral fractures are sentinel events for osteoporosis. We aimed to compare quality of life and physical function in men with and without MVF.

METHODS

Using morphometric X-ray absorptiometry (T10-L4), MVFs were identified in a random sample of men aged 20-93 years. Moderate and severe wedge, biconcave or compression deformities (>25% reduction in any vertebral height) were classified as MVFs.

RESULTS

Of 1,147 men, MVFs were identified in 64. No MVFs were detected for men in their twenties. Prevalence was 1.5% for 30-39 years, 1.4% 40-49 years, 3.2% 50-59 years, 4.7% 60-69 years, 10.0% 70-79 years and 14.6% 80+ years. Among 555 men aged 60+ years, those with MVFs were twice as likely to have quality of life scores in the lowest tertile (age-adjusted OR = 2.35, 95%CI 1.24-4.45). MVFs were associated with lower mean age-adjusted physical activity scores [11.3 (95%CI 9.0-13.8) vs 14.0 (13.2-14.9), P = 0.04] and longer mean age-adjusted 'Up-&-Go' times [9.5 (8.9, 10.1) vs 8.9 (8.8, 9.1) s, P = 0.06].

CONCLUSION

Despite most men being unaware of their condition, MVFs were associated with poor quality of life and impaired physical function. We recommend that morphometric X-ray absorptiometry be included in routine requests for bone densitometry because detection of MVFs has important implications for osteoporosis management in men.