Vertebral fragility fractures: where do we stand?

Abstract

Vertebral fragility fractures (VFF) constitutes a major complication of osteoporosis affecting the quality of patient life. Debates about diagnosis and therapeutic measures are still ongoing. VFF might be considered as an independent factor of severe osteoporosis. Magnetic resonance image can be a useful diagnostic tool by giving more information than simple X-ray regarding the severity of the fracture, the healing process, the neurological damage, and possible secondary metastasis. Vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty, even a conservative treatment, have been applied to treat such fractures; we will discuss each technique and to our belief, any technique used should take into consideration the restoration of the normal curvature of the spine.