Background
Osteoporosis predominantly affects postmenopausal women and may lead to spontaneous thoracolumbar fractures or contribute to fractures following minor trauma. (2) Its prevalence increases with age, and the incidence among the elderly population continues to rise. Currently, an estimated 10 million individuals in the United States and 27.6 million in Europe are affected by osteoporosis. (3)
Osteoporotic vertebral fractures (OVFs) typically result from low-energy trauma, such as a fall from standing height, in the setting of reduced bone strength. They represent the most common type of fragility fracture and are a major cause of chronic pain, functional limitation, and reduced quality of life. Moreover, OVFs are a strong indicator of frailty and are associated with a significantly increased risk of subsequent fractures. Patients who have sustained an OVF have a higher likelihood of sustaining a hip fracture within one year, as well as an approximately 20% risk of developing an additional vertebral fracture. (1)
The management of OVFs is particularly challenging due to patient-related factors such as advanced age, multiple comorbidities, polypharmacy, reduced physiological reserves, and frequent cognitive impairment. A wide range of treatment options exists, including both surgical and non-surgical approaches; however, indications vary considerably between institutions and countries. (4) A thorough understanding of the pathophysiology and management of OVFs is therefore essential, as these fractures are associated with substantial morbidity and increased mortality. With the progressive aging of the population, the incidence of OVFs is expected to continue rising, making them an increasingly important public health concern. (5)
Purpose
As spine surgeons, we frequently encounter osteoporotic vertebral fractures and are often required to advise patients on the most appropriate course of treatment. To facilitate the sharing of management strategies and to identify common clinical practices, we have developed a survey incorporating brief case scenarios. We greatly appreciate your participation, as your input will help improve our understanding of the optimal management of patients with OVFs.
Description
As part of this survey, you will be asked to share your management preferences and surgical techniques to investigate, follow and treat OVFs. You will also be presented with sample cases featuring X-rays, CT scans, and MRI, and asked to provide details of your typical management strategy.
Privacy and Confidentiality
The study results will be based on a collective analysis of information from multiple individuals, which will not allow any individual to be identified. The data provided by you may be used in a research publication. However, any responses, records, or personal information that could be directly linked to you will not be reported to maintain complete privacy and confidentiality.
Participation and Withdrawal
You are not obliged to participate in this research study if you are not interested, and you can withdraw from the study at any given time. You can choose not to answer any questions that you are not comfortable with or questions that are irrelevant to you. You have the option to leave or quit the online portal whenever you want. In case you decide to withdraw from the research study before completion, any data collected up to that point will still be used in the analysis of the study.
Study Contact
For any further information, please contact Dr. Lucio De Maria at the following address: luciodemaria@gmail.com
