Evaluation of Bone Fragility and Fracture Prevention

Abstract

Patients with osteoporotic fractures are much more likely to sustain additional fractures; therefore both appropriate treatment and prevention of future fractures (which takes into account the method of injury) need to be addressed. These patients are also much more likely to have underlying secondary causes for bone loss that need to be diagnosed and treated, as well as other multiple risk factors that should be uncovered and modified if possible. Finally, clinical pathways that unite orthopedic surgeons and medical specialists in osteoporosis care are necessary to target patients with osteoporotic fractures for evaluation and treatment.