Healing trabecular microfractures in the bodies of lumbar vertebrae

Abstract

Lumbar spines were removed from 22 subjects at autopsy. The number and distribution of healing trabecular fractures was assessed in macerated slices of vertebral bodies, and the fractures were further examined by microscopy and radiography. Trabecular fractures were predominantly located on vertical trabeculae adjacent to the upper and lower subchondral osseous plates of vertebral bodies, and were increased in number in association with osteoporosis and advancing age.