Screening and treatment of osteoporosis after hip fracture: comparison of sex and race

Targeting chemokine-receptor mediated molecular signaling by ethnopharmacological approaches

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Infection and inflammation are critical to global human health status and the goal of current pharmacological interventions intends formulating medications/preventives as a measure to deal with this situation. Chemokines and their cognate receptors are major regulatory molecules in many of these ailments. Natural products have been a keen source to the drug development industry, every year contributing significantly to the growing list of FDA approved drugs. A multiverse of natural resource is employed as a part of curative regimen in folk/traditional/ethnomedicine which can be employed to discover, repurpose, and design potent medications for the diseases of clinical concern.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This review aims to systematically document the ethnopharmacologically active agents targeting the infectious-inflammatory diseases through the chemokine-receptor nexus.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Articles related to chemokine/receptor modulating ethnopharmacological anti-inflammatory, anti-infectious natural sources, bioactive compounds, and formulations have been examined with special emphasis on women related diseases. The available literature has been thoroughly scrutinized for the application of traditional medicines in chemokine associated experimental methods, their regulatory outcomes, and pertinence to women's health wherever applicable. Moreover, the potential traditional regimens under clinical trials have been critically assessed.

RESULTS

A systematic and comprehensive review on the chemokine-receptor targeting ethnopharmaceutics from the available literature has been provided. The article discusses the implication of traditional medicine in the chemokine system dynamics in diverse infectious-inflammatory disorders such as cardiovascular diseases, allergic diseases, inflammatory diseases, neuroinflammation, and cancer. On this note, critical evaluation of the available data surfaced multiple diseases prevalent in women such as osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, breast cancer, cervical cancer and urinary tract infection. Currently there is no available literature highlighting chemokine-receptor targeting using traditional medicinal approach from women's health perspective. Moreover, despite being potent in vitro and in vivo setups there remains a gap in clinical translation of these formulations, which needs to be strategically and scientifically addressed to pave the way for their successful industrial translation.

CONCLUSIONS

The review provides an optimistic global perspective towards the applicability of ethnopharmacology in chemokine-receptor regulated infectious and inflammatory diseases with special emphasis on ailments prevalent in women, consecutively addressing their current status of clinical translation and future directions.

Effect of gender on the evolution of pain and quality of life after treatment of symptomatic vertebral fragility fractures

The evolution of pain and quality of life after a symptomatic vertebral fracture differs according to patient gender, with a worse evolution in women independently of the treatment received.

PURPOSE

In a previous randomized clinical study comparing the effect of vertebroplasty (VP) vs. conservative therapy (CT) on pain evolution and quality of life (QoL) of patients with symptomatic vertebral fractures (VF), we observed the development of chronic back pain in 23% of subjects, independently of the therapy received. This study analyses the effect of gender on the evolution of pain and QoL in these subjects.

METHODS

118/125 randomized patients (27 males/91 females) with recent symptomatic VFs were evaluated. All received a standardized analgesic and antiosteoporotic format of treatment. Pain and QoL were evaluated by VAS and Qualeffo-41, respectively, at baseline, at 2 weeks and 2 and 6 months. We compared pain evolution and QoL after treatment (CT vs. VP) according to gender, and analysed factors including age, time of evolution, treatment received, baseline VAS, previous VFs (total and recent), incidental VFs, lumbar and femoral T-scores, and analgesic and antiosteoporotic treatment.

RESULTS

At baseline, there were no differences in age (males 74.8 ± 11.2 vs. females:73.2 ± 8.7 years), time of evolution, number of VFs (males:3.8 ± 2.4 vs. females: 3.1 ± 2.4), treatment received (VP, males:59%, females:45%), lumbar or femoral T-score, baseline VAS (males:6.8 ± 2.1 vs. females:6.8 ± 2.2) or Qualeffo score (males:52.2 ± 24.4 vs. females:59.7 ± 20.6). Pain and QoL evolution differed according to gender, being better in males. These differences were significant after two months independently of the treatment and the development of incidental VF during follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Pain and QoL evolution after a symptomatic VF differs according to gender, with a worse evolution in women independently of the treatment received.

Age-dependent gender differences in the diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis during hospitalization in patients with fragility fractures

BACKGROUND

There is a gender difference in the acceptance of osteoporosis diagnosis and treatment in patients after fragility fractures, but this difference is rarely assessed during hospitalization, and it is unclear whether these differences are age-dependent. This study aimed to evaluate the differences between male and female fragility fracture patients of different age groups who received the diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis during hospitalization.

METHODS

31,265 fragility fracture patients aged ≥ 50 years from the Fragility Fracture Management Database in a high-volume orthopedic hospital from December 2019 to February 2023 were included in this study. We compared the differences in the rates of men and women with fragility fracture who received the measurement of bone mineral density (BMD) and bone metabolism biochemical markers (BMBMs) and treatment with anti-osteoporosis medications (AOMs), and follow-up to the internal medicine clinic within 3 months after discharge, across all age groups and across different age stages (50-59, 60-69, 70-79, and ≥ 80 years).

RESULTS

The detection rates of female patients receiving BMD and BMBMs during hospitalization were 31.88% and 5.30%, respectively, compared with 22.23% and 2.69% for men. The rate of receiving any AOMs treatment was 44.63% for women and 31.60% for men. The follow-up rate of returning to the internal medicine clinic within 3 months after discharge was 9.79% for women compared to 3.00% for men. There was a significant difference between males compared to females (P < 0.0001). Analysis of patients by different age group revealed that differences in the diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis were found only in patients under 80 years of age, while gender differences in the return to the internal medicine clinic for follow-up after discharge were present in all age groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Gender differences present in osteoporosis management in patients with fragility fracture during hospitalization, especially for patients under 80 years of age. This finding suggests that orthopedic surgeons neglect to manage osteoporosis in male patients with fragility fracture during hospitalization.

Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on pharmacologic treatment of patients newly diagnosed with osteoporosis

PURPOSE

This study determined whether initiation of pharmacologic treatment was delayed for newly diagnosed osteoporosis patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

1,189 patients ≥50 years with newly diagnosed osteoporosis using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) screening at a single academic institution were included. Patients with previous osteoporosis were excluded. Patients diagnosed between March 1, 2018-January 31, 2020 (pre-pandemic cohort, n = 576) were compared to those diagnosed between March 1, 2020-January 31, 2022 (pandemic cohort, n = 613). Age, sex, race, ethnicity, ordering providers (primary vs specialty), and pharmacological agents were evaluated. Primary outcomes included proportion of patients prescribed therapy within 3 and 6-months of diagnosis, and mean time from diagnosis to treatment initiation.

RESULTS

The pre-pandemic cohort had more White patients (74.3 vs 68.4%, p = .02) and no differences between remaining demographic variables. Only 40.5% of newly diagnosed patients initiated pharmacologic therapy within 6 months. Patients treated at 3-months (31.8 vs 35.4%, p = 0.19) and 6-months (37.8 vs 42.9, p = 0.08) were comparable between cohorts (47.2 vs 50.2% p = 0.30). Mean time from diagnosis to treatment initiation was similar (46 vs 45 days, p = 0.72). There were no treatment differences based on gender, race, or ethnicity or between ordering providers (65.1 vs 57.4% primary care, p = 0.08). Bisphosphonates were most often prescribed in both cohorts (89% vs 82.1%).

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study assessing COVID-19's impact on pharmacologic treatment of newly diagnosed osteoporosis. 40.5% of newly diagnosed patients were treated pharmacologically within six months of diagnosis, and the pandemic did not significantly affect treatment rates.

Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of CT-Based Finite Element Modeling for Osteoporosis Screening in Secondary Fracture Prevention: An Early Health Technology Assessment in the Netherlands

Objective. To conduct cost-utility analyses for Computed Tomography To Strength (CT2S), a novel osteoporosis screening service, compared with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), treat all without screening, and no screening methods for Dutch postmenopausal women referred to fracture liaison service (FLS). CT2S uses CT scans to generate femur models and simulate sideways fall scenarios for bone strength assessment. Methods. Early health technology assessment (HTA) was adopted to evaluate CT2S as a novel osteoporosis screening tool for secondary fracture prevention. We constructed a 2-dimensional simulation model considering 4 strategies (no screening, treat all without screening, DXA, CT2S) together with screening intervals (5 y, 2 y), treatments (oral alendronate, zoledronic acid), and discount rate scenarios among Dutch women in 3 age groups (60s, 70s, and 80s). Strategy comparisons were based on incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs), considering an ICER below €20,000 per QALY gained as cost-effective in the Netherlands. Results. Under the base-case scenario, CT2S versus DXA had estimated ICERs of €41,200 and €14,083 per QALY gained for the 60s and 70s age groups, respectively. For the 80s age group, CT2S was more effective and less costly than DXA. Changing treatment from weekly oral alendronate to annual zoledronic acid substantially decreased CT2S versus DXA ICERs across all age groups. Setting the screening interval to 2 y increased CT2S versus DXA ICERs to €100,333, €55,571, and €15,750 per QALY gained for the 60s, 70s, and 80s age groups, respectively. In all simulated populations and scenarios, CT2S was cost-effective (in some cases dominant) compared with the treat all strategy and cost-saving (more effective and less costly) compared with no screening. Conclusion. CT2S was estimated to be potentially cost-effective in the 70s and 80s age groups considering the willingness-to-pay threshold of the Netherlands. This early HTA suggests CT2S as a potential novel osteoporosis screening tool for secondary fracture prevention.

Highlights

For postmenopausal Dutch women who have been referred to the FLS, direct access to CT2S may be cost-effective compared with DXA for age groups 70s and 80s, when considering the ICER threshold of the Netherlands. This study positions CT2S as a potential novel osteoporosis-screening tool for secondary fracture prevention in the clinical setting.A shorter screening interval of 2 y increases the effectiveness of both screening strategies, but the ICER of CT2S compared with DXA also increased substantially, which made CT2S no longer cost-effective for the 70s age group; however, it remains cost-effective for individuals in their 80s.Annual zoledronic acid treatment with better adherence may contribute to a lower cost-effectiveness ratio when comparing CT2S to DXA screening and the treat all strategies for all age groups.

Engagement in Primary Prevention Program among Rural Veterans With Osteoporosis Risk

A primary osteoporosis prevention program using a virtual bone health team (BHT) was implemented to comanage the care of rural veterans in the Mountain West region of the United States. The BHT identified, screened, and treated rural veterans at risk for osteoporosis using telephone and United States Postal Service communications. Eligibility was determined by regular use of Veterans Health Administration primary care, age 50 or older, and evidence of fracture risk. This study was conducted to identify demographic and clinical factors associated with the acceptance of osteoporosis screening and the initiation of medication where indicated. A cross-sectional cohort design (N = 6985) was utilized with a generalized estimating equation and logit link function to account for facility-level clustering. Fully saturated and reduced models were fitted using backward selection. Less than a quarter of eligible veterans enrolled in BHT's program and completed screening. Factors associated with a lower likelihood of clinic enrollment included being of older age, unmarried, greater distance from VHA services, having a copayment, prior fracture, or history of rheumatoid arthritis. A majority of veterans with treatment indication started medication therapy (N = 453). In this subpopulation, Fisher's exact test showed a significant association between osteoporosis treatment uptake and a history of two or more falls in the prior year, self-reported parental history of fracture, current smoking, and weight-bearing exercise. The BHT was designed to reduce barriers to screening; however, for this population cost and travel continue to limit engagement. The remarkable rate of medication initiation notwithstanding, low enrollment reduces the impact of this primary prevention program, and findings pertaining to fracture, smoking, and exercise imply that health beliefs are an important contributing factor. Efforts to identify and address barriers to osteoporosis screening and treatment, such as clinical factors, social determinants of health, and health beliefs, may pave the way for effective implementation of population bone health care delivery systems. Published 2022. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.

Sex-specific interventions to prevent and manage frailty

There is growing interest in interventions that delay, slow, and even reverse frailty. In this narrative review, we explore the evidence on exercise, nutrition, medication optimisation and social support interventions for frailty and consider how these relate to underlying frailty pathophysiology. We also consider pathophysiological mechanisms underpinning sex differences in frailty before evaluating the limited evidence for sex-specific frailty interventions that is currently available. Through this review of the literature, we generate a list of potential sex-specific interventions for frailty. While individual-level recommendations are certainly important, future work should turn the focus towards population-level interventions that take into account sex differences in frailty, including changes to healthcare and socioeconomic systems, as well as changes to the built environment to promote healthy behaviours.

Osteoporosis identification among previously undiagnosed individuals with vertebral fractures

Because osteoporosis is under-recognized in patients with vertebral fractures, we evaluated characteristics associated with osteoporosis identification. Most patients with vertebral fractures did not receive evaluation or treatment for osteoporosis. Black, younger, and male participants were particularly unlikely to have had recognized osteoporosis, which could increase their risk of negative outcomes.

INTRODUCTION

Vertebral fractures may be identified on imaging but fail to prompt evaluation for osteoporosis. Our objective was to evaluate characteristics associated with clinical osteoporosis recognition in patients who had vertebral fractures detected on their thoracolumbar spine imaging reports.

METHODS

We prospectively identified individuals who received imaging of the lower spine at primary care clinics in 4 large healthcare systems who were eligible for osteoporosis screening and lacked indications of osteoporosis diagnoses or treatments in the prior year. We evaluated characteristics of participants with identified vertebral fractures that were associated with recognition of osteoporosis (diagnosis code in the health record; receipt of bone mineral density scans; and/or prescriptions for anti-osteoporotic medications). We used mixed models to estimate adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs).

RESULTS

A total of 114,005 participants (47% female; mean age 65 (interquartile range: 57-72) years) were evaluated. Of the 8579 (7%) participants with vertebral fractures identified, 3784 (44%) had recognition of osteoporosis within the subsequent year. In adjusted regressions, Black participants (OR (95% CI): 0.74 (0.57, 0.97)), younger participants (age 50-60: 0.48 (0.42, 0.54); age 61-64: 0.70 (0.60, 0.81)), and males (0.39 (0.35, 0.43)) were less likely to have recognized osteoporosis compared to white participants, adults aged 65 + years, or females.

CONCLUSION

Individuals with identified vertebral fractures commonly did not have recognition of osteoporosis within a year, particularly those who were younger, Black, or male. Providers and healthcare systems should consider efforts to improve evaluation of osteoporosis in patients with vertebral fractures.

Lack of Bone Mineral Density Testing in Men with Hypogonadism: A Clinical Conundrum

Context

The 2012 Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guidelines recommend that men aged 50 years or older with a diagnosis of hypogonadism undergo bone mineral density (BMD) testing.

Objective

The objective of this study was to determine the frequency at which men aged 50 years or older with a diagnosis of hypogonadism undergo BMD testing, and if found to have low BMD, are subsequently treated with an osteoporosis medication.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was conducted at a large academic medical center. Inclusion requirements were an International Classification of Diseases (ICD)-9 or -10 code for hypogonadism at any time between July 1, 2012 and September 30, 2020. Patients were followed until the date of BMD assessment or censoring (September 30, 2021). BMD results and treatment with osteoporosis medication were recorded.

Results

A total of 10 169 men with hypogonadism were identified, of whom the mean age was 63.4 (± 9.2), 86.3% White, mean body mass index 31.3 with prevalence of chronic kidney disease, type 2 diabetes, and hypertension of 20.6%, 36.9%, and 68.2%, respectively. The percentage that underwent BMD testing was 7.2%, of which 352 (48.4%) and 87 (12.0%) had osteopenia and osteoporosis, respectively. Among the 87 patients with osteoporosis, 57.5% were treated with an osteoporosis medication.

Conclusion

Only 7.2% of hypogonadal men underwent BMD testing, and among them, 12.0% were found to have osteoporosis. Among those with osteoporosis, 57.5% underwent treatment with osteoporosis medication. Further studies are needed to determine why so few men with hypogonadism undergo BMD assessment and what systems can be put in place to overcome this clinical conundrum.

Osteoporosis treatment rates after hip fracture 2011-2019 in Hawaii: Undertreatment of men after hip fractures

Objectives

To investigate trends of osteoporosis treatment rates, and factors affecting osteoporosis treatment after hip fracture admission within a single health care system in Hawaii.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was conducted of patients aged 50 years or older and hospitalized for hip fractures between January 1, 2011 and December 31, 2019 at Hawaii Pacific Health, a large health care system in Hawaii. We collected data on basic demographics and osteoporosis medication prescription from electronic medical records. We evaluated trends of osteoporosis treatment rates and performed logistic regression to determine factors associated with osteoporosis treatment.

Results

The mean for treatment rates for osteoporosis from 2011 to 2019 was 17.2% (range 8.8%–26.0%). From 2011 to 2019 there was a small increase in treatment rates from 16.3% in 2011 to 24.1% in 2019. Men were less likely to receive osteoporosis treatment after admission for hip fracture. Patients discharged to a facility were more likely to receive osteoporosis treatment. As compared to women, men who had a hip fracture were less likely to receive dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scan, and osteoporosis medication before hip fracture admission.

Conclusions

The use of osteoporosis medication for secondary prevention after admission for hip fracture in Hawaii from 2011 to 2019 was low. However, there was a small increase in treatment rates from 2011 to 2019. Disparities in treatment of osteoporosis after hip fracture were noted in men. Significant work is needed to increase treatment rates further, and to address the disparity in osteoporosis treatment between men and women.

Gender Disparities in Osteoporosis Screening and Management Among Older Adults

INTRODUCTION

One in two women and one in four men experience an osteoporosis-related fracture in their lifetime. Related morbidity and mortality rates are higher in men versus women. Current guidelines are inconsistent in the screening recommendations for osteoporosis in men. Examination of gender disparities in the management of osteoporosis-related fractures among Medicare enrollees is currently lacking.

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort study using 5% National Medicare claims data from January 1, 2012 through December 31, 2016, eligible patients who were at least 65 years of age on the date of a new fracture episode were classified into two mutually exclusive cohorts on the basis of whether they received testing and/or treatment for osteoporosis in the 6-month period after the new fracture episode. The cohorts were defined on the basis of the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) quality measure "osteoporosis management in women who had a fracture." Patients were followed to identify the occurrence of subsequent fracture, all-cause mortality, and a composite outcome-defined as the first occurrence of either subsequent fracture or mortality. Logistic regression models were carried out to identify predictors of testing and/or treatment and time-varying survival analysis to identify the relationship between the presence of testing and/or treatment and patient outcomes.

RESULTS

Of the 35,774 eligible patients, only 10.2% (12.1% women and 5.7% men) received osteoporosis testing and/or treatment within 6 months after a fracture. The interaction between gender and fragility fracture was significant (P < 0.0001). Fragility fracture had greater adjusted odds of testing and/or treatment among men (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 3.47; 95% CI 2.94-4.10) than women (AOR 1.65; 95% CI 1.53-1.79). Of patients who were eligible for the outcome assessment, 27.5% experienced a subsequent fracture, 23.2% died, and 44.3% experienced a composite outcome during follow-up. Patients who received testing and/or treatment had a significantly lower hazard of all-cause mortality (hazard ratio [HR] 0.57; 95% CI 0.50-0.65; P < 0.0001) and the composite outcome (HR 0.42; 95% CI 0.39-0.45; P < 0.0001), but no difference in the risk of subsequent fracture (HR 1.02; 95% CI 0.94-1.11; P = 0.6083). Men were found to have a significantly lower hazard of subsequent fracture (HR 0.69; 95% CI 0.64-0.73; P < 0.0001), all-cause mortality (HR 0.67; 95% CI 0.61-0.72; P < 0.0001), and the composite outcome (HR 0.69; 95% CI 0.65-0.73; P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Testing and/or treatment for osteoporosis among older adults with a fracture is poor in the Medicare fee-for-service population overall and worse for men compared to women. Receiving appropriate testing and/or treatment was associated with reduced mortality and the risk of composite outcome. Improving osteoporosis testing and/or treatment and reducing health disparities are essential for managing the clinical and economic burden of osteoporosis in the USA.

National trends in extremity fracture hospitalizations among older adults between 2003 and 2017

BACKGROUND

Fractures in late life are highly consequential for health, services use, and spending. Little is known about trends in extremity fracture hospitalizations among older adults in the United States.

DESIGN

Retrospective longitudinal cohort study.

SETTING

The 2003-2017 National Inpatient Sample (NIS), a representative sample of U.S. community hospitals.

PARTICIPANTS

Hospitalized adults aged 65 and older with a diagnosis of upper or lower extremity fracture.

MEASUREMENTS

Incidence of extremity fracture hospitalization and mortality, using NIS discharge and trend weights, and population denominators derived from the U.S. Census Bureau. Incidence was reported separately for men and women by age, fracture diagnosis, and injury mechanism. Weighted linear regression was used to test for significant trends over time.

RESULTS

Incidence of extremity fracture hospitalizations declined in both women (15.7%, p trend < 0.001) and men (3.2%, p trend < 0.001) between 2003 and 2017. This trend was primarily attributed to a decline in low energy femur fractures which accounted for 65% of all fracture hospitalizations. Among older adults with an extremity fracture hospitalization, mortality declined from 5.1% in 2003 to 3.3% in 2017 in men, and from 2.6% to 1.9% in women (p trend < 0.001). High energy fractures were due to falls (53%), motor vehicle accidents (34%), and other high impact injuries (13%). Overall, 12% of extremity fracture hospitalizations were attributed to high-energy injuries: increases were observed among men ages 65-74 (20%; p trend < 0.001) and 75-84 (10%; p trend = 0.013), but not among women of any age.

CONCLUSION

Observed declines in the incidence of extremity fracture hospitalizations and related mortality are encouraging. However, increasing incidence of fracture hospitalization from high energy injuries among men suggests that older adults with complex injuries will be seen with more prevalence in the future.

Attitudes toward bone health among rural-dwelling veterans identified as at risk of fracture: a qualitative analysis

Although much is known about system‐level barriers to prevention and treatment of bone health problems, little is known about patient‐level barriers. The objective of this study was to identify factors limiting engagement in bone health care from the perspective of rural‐dwelling patients with known untreated risk. Over 6 months, 39 patients completed a qualitative interview. Interview questions focused on the patient's experience of care, their decision to not accept care, as well as their knowledge of osteoporosis and the impact it has had on their lives. Participants were well‐informed and could adequately describe osteoporosis and its deleterious effects, and their decision making around accepting or declining a dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry (DXA) scan and treatment was both cautious and intentional. Decisions about how to engage in treatment were tempered by expectations for quality of life. Our findings suggest that people hold beliefs about bone health treatment that we can build on. Work to improve care of this population needs to recognize that bone health providers are not adding a behavior of medication taking to patients, they are changing a behavior or belief. Published 2021. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.

Osteoporosis in Men: A Review of an Underestimated Bone Condition

Osteoporosis is called the 'silent disease' because, although it does not give significant symptoms when it is not complicated, can cause fragility fractures, with serious consequences and death. Furthermore, the consequences of osteoporosis have been calculated to weigh heavily on the costs of health systems in all the countries. Osteoporosis is considered a female disease. Actually, the hormonal changes that occur after menopause certainly determine a significant increase in osteoporosis and the risk of fractures in women. However, while there is no doubt that women are more exposed to osteoporosis and fragility fractures, the literature clearly indicates that physicians tend to underestimate the osteoporosis in men. The review of the literature done by the authors shows that osteoporosis and fragility fractures have a high incidence also in men; and, furthermore, the risk of fatal complications in hip fractured men is higher than that for women. The authors report the evidence of the literature on male osteoporosis, dwelling on epidemiology, causes of osteoporosis in men, diagnosis, and treatment. The analysis of the literature shows that male osteoporosis is underscreened, underdiagnosed, and undertreated, both in primary and secondary prevention of fragility fractures.

Delivering fracture prevention services to rural US veterans through telemedicine: a process evaluation

An informatics-driven population bone health clinic was implemented to identify, screen, and treat rural US Veterans at risk for osteoporosis. We report the results of our implementation process evaluation which demonstrated BHT to be a feasible telehealth model for delivering preventative osteoporosis services in this setting.

PURPOSE

An established and growing quality gap in osteoporosis evaluation and treatment of at-risk patients has yet to be met with corresponding clinical care models addressing osteoporosis primary prevention. The rural bone health tea m (BHT) was implemented to identify, screen, and treat rural Veterans lacking evidence of bone health care and we conducted a process evaluation to understand BHT implementation feasibility.

METHODS

For this evaluation, we defined the primary outcome as the number of Veterans evaluated with DXA and a secondary outcome as the number of Veterans who initiated prescription therapy to reduce fracture risk. Outcomes were measured over a 15-month period and analyzed descriptively. Qualitative data to understand successful implementation were collected concurrently by conducting interviews with clinical personnel interacting with BHT and BHT staff and observations of BHT implementation processes at three site visits using the Promoting Action on Research Implementation in Health Services (PARIHS) framework.

RESULTS

Of 4500 at-risk, rural Veterans offered osteoporosis screening, 1081 (24%) completed screening, and of these, 37% had normal bone density, 48% osteopenia, and 15% osteoporosis. Among Veterans with pharmacotherapy indications, 90% initiated therapy. Qualitative analyses identified barriers of rural geography, rural population characteristics, and the infrastructural resource requirement. Data infrastructure, evidence base for care delivery, stakeholder buy-in, formal and informal facilitator engagement, and focus on teamwork were identified as facilitators of implementation success.

CONCLUSION

The BHT is a feasible population telehealth model for delivering preventative osteoporosis care to rural Veterans.

Incidence of osteoporosis and fragility fractures in asthma: a UK population-based matched cohort study

INTRODUCTION

Osteoporosis and fragility fractures are associated with corticosteroids which are the mainstay treatment for asthma; however, these bone comorbidities within asthma need to be better described.

METHODS

A matched cohort study was conducted using the UK Clinical Practice Research Database (CPRD). Adults with an incident asthma code were identified and matched, with up to four randomly selected people without asthma, by age, sex and practice. Osteoporosis and fragility fracture incidence rates were calculated, and Cox regression was performed comparing hazard rates to the general population. We report the impact of age, sex, glucocorticoids and the risk of specific fractures.

RESULTS

Patients with asthma had a higher risk of osteoporosis (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 1.18, 95% CI 1.13-1.23) and were 12% (aHR 1.12, 95% CI 1.07-1.16) more likely to sustain fragility fractures than the general population. Age modified the effect of asthma on osteoporosis and fragility fractures, such that the effect was stronger in younger people (p_interaction<0.0001). The vertebra (aHR 1.40, 95% CI 1.33-1.48) and forearm/wrist (aHR 1.27, 95% CI 1.22-1.32) were the sites linked with a larger incidence. A dose-response relationship between oral corticosteroids (OCS) and osteoporosis was observed, whereas the risk of fragility fractures increased in those with six or more OCS courses per year. Regular use of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) increased the risk of both bone conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with asthma are more likely to develop osteoporosis or sustain fragility fractures than the general population, with a particular concern in younger people and those more frequently using OCS and ICS.

High detection rate of osteoporosis with screening of a general hospitalized population: a 6-year study in 6406 patients in a university hospital setting

Background

Osteoporosis is a highly prevalent disease identified by Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) that can be performed in an ambulatory (out-patient) or hospitalized population. We evaluated the use of baseline in-hospital DEXA screening to identify osteoporosis in ambulatory care and hospitalized patients; we also assessed specific risk factors for osteoporosis among these populations.

Methods

We included a baseline initial DEXA from 6406 consecutive patients at our tertiary referral University Hospital.

Results

Osteoporosis was diagnosed in 22.3% of the study population. In univariate analysis, osteoporosis risk factors were age, fracture history and low BMI (for all 3 sites), but also corticotherapy (lumbar spine and femoral neck) and male (lumbar spine). In multivariate analysis, age, fracture history, low BMI, and male increased osteoporosis risk. In-hospital screening yielded a higher percentage of osteoporosis positive scans than ambulatory care screening (31.8% vs 18.5%, p < 0.001). In-hospital screening targeted an older and more predominantly male population with a higher fracture history. Z-scores revealed that this difference was not only due to an older age of the population and mainly concerned cortical bone.

Conclusions

In-hospital osteoporosis screening revealed more osteoporosis than screening in ambulatory practice and could be an additional tool to improve the identification and management of osteoporosis. In addition to typical risk factors, we identified male gender as associated with osteoporosis detection in our cohort.

Understanding Osteoporosis Screening Practices in Men: A Nationwide Physician Survey

OBJECTIVE

To understand osteoporosis screening practices, particularly in men, by a diverse cohort of physicians, including primary care physicians, endocrinologists, and geriatricians.

METHODS

We surveyed randomly selected members of the American Academy of Family Practice, Endocrine Society, and American Geriatrics Society. Respondents were asked to rate how often they would screen for osteoporosis in four different clinical scenarios by ordering a bone density scan. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to determine factors associated with offering osteoporosis screening in men in each clinical scenario. Physicians were also asked to note factors that would lead to osteoporosis screening in men.

RESULTS

Response rate was 63% (359/566). While 90% respondents reported that they would always or frequently screen for osteoporosis in a 65-year-old post-menopausal woman, only 22% reported they would screen a 74-year-old man with no significant past medical history. Endocrinologists were more likely to screen a 74-year-old man compared to primary care physicians (odds ratio, 2.32; 95% confidence interval, 1.10 to 4.88). In addition to chronic steroid use (94%), history of nontraumatic fractures (88%), and androgen-deprivation therapy for prostate cancer (82%), more than half the physicians reported suppressive doses of thyroid hormone (64%) and history of falls (52%) as factors leading to screening for osteoporosis in men.

CONCLUSIONS

Our survey results highlight heterogeneity in osteoporosis screening in men, with underscreening in some scenarios compared to women, and identify factors that lead to screening in men. These findings can help design interventions to improve osteoporosis screening in men.

Management of Hip Fractures at an Academic Center: Challenges and Opportunities

OBJECTIVE

To assess characteristics of patients with hip fractures and investigate the extent of osteoporosis-related care they receive at a tertiary referral center in Lebanon.

METHODS

A retrospective review of charts of 400 patients admitted with a hip fracture to the American University of Beirut-Medical Center, between January 1, 2011 and December 31, 2015. We reviewed medical records of adults admitted with a nonpathologic/nontraumatic hip fracture, and evaluated basic demographics and relevant clinical information, associated risk factors, and the management received.

RESULTS

The mean age of the population was 78 ± 10 years and men constituted 37%. Women were more likely to be assessed and/or treated. On admission, 21% were taking calcium and 18% vitamin D supplementation. During hospitalization, vitamin D level was assessed in only 39% of patients; a dietary and an osteoporosis consult were requested on only 32% and 22% of the cases, respectively. One-fourth to a third of patients were discharged on calcium or vitamin D, and less than 5% on bisphosphonates. Bone mineral density was measured in a minority although 21% had a history of previous contralateral hip fracture. One year mortality rate in a subset where follow-up available was 12% in men and 7% in women.

CONCLUSION

A large care gap in the management of patients admitted with hip fracture persists despite clear national osteoporosis guidelines. This study provides a strong impetus for establishing and monitoring a fracture liaison service to understand and address barriers to providing optimal care to patients with osteoporosis.

Does Physical Exercise Always Improve Bone Quality in Rats?

For decades, the osteogenic effect from different physical activities on bone in rodents remained uncertain. This literature review presents for the first time the effects on five exercise models (treadmill running, wheel running, swimming, resistance training and vibration modes) in three different experimental rat groups (males, females, osteopenic) on bone quality. The bone parameters presented are bone mineral density, micro-architectural and mechanical properties, and osteoblast/osteocyte and osteoclast parameters. This review shows that physical activities have a positive effect (65% of the results) on bone status, but we clearly observed a difference amongst the different protocols. Even if treadmill running is the most used protocol, the resistance training constitutes the first exercise model in term of osteogenic effects (87% of the whole results obtained on this model). The less osteogenic model is the vibration mode procedure (31%). It clearly appears that the gender plays a role on the bone response to swimming and wheel running exercises. Besides, we did not observe negative results in the osteopenic population with impact training, wheel running and vibration activities. Moreover, about osteoblast/osteocyte parameters, we conclude that high impact and resistance exercise (such jumps and tower climbing) seems to increase bone formation more than running or aerobic exercise. Among the different protocols, literature has shown that the treadmill running procedure mainly induces osteogenic effects on the viability of the osteocyte lineage in both males and females or ovariectomized rats; running in voluntary wheels contributes to a negative effect on bone metabolism in older male models; whole-body vertical vibration is not an osteogenic exercise in female and ovariectomized rats; whereas swimming provides controversial results in female models. For osteoclast parameters only, running in a voluntary wheel for old males, the treadmill running program at high intensity in ovariectomized rats, and the swimming program in a specific ovariectomy condition have detrimental consequences.

Hip Fracture Trends in America Between 2009 and 2016

Background

Hip fractures are a common condition associated with high morbidity and mortality. In this study, we assess (1) yearly incidences, (2) demographic factors, (3) postoperative outcomes, (4) primary diagnoses, and (5) primary procedures.

Materials and Methods

The National Inpatient Sample was queried for patients admitted with hip fractures from 2009 to 2016 (n = 2 761 850). Variables analyzed were age, sex, race, obesity status, Charlson Comorbidity Index, smoking status, osteoporosis status, lengths of stay (LOS), discharge dispositions, charges, costs, mortalities, inpatient complications, primary and secondary diagnoses, and primary procedures.

Results

From 2009 to 2016, the overall gross number of hip fractures decreased (P < .001). At the conclusion of the study, more patients were male, obese, and smokers, while fewer had a diagnosis of osteoporosis (P < .001 for all). Mean LOS significantly decreased (P < .001), while charges and costs increased (P < .001 for both). Both mortality and the overall complication rate decreased (P < .001 for both). Specifically, complications that decreased included myocardial infarctions, deep vein thromboses, pulmonary emboli, pneumoniae, hematomas/seromas, urinary tract infections, and transfusions (P < .001 for all). Complications that increased included cardiac arrests, respiratory failures, mechanical complications, and sepsis (P < .001 for all). The most common diagnosis was "closed fracture of intertrochanteric section of neck of femur." The procedure performed most often was "open reduction of fracture with internal fixation, femur."

Conclusion

An increasing number of males and smokers have sustained hip fractures, although fewer patients with osteoporosis experienced these injuries. A decreasing overall complication rate may indicate improving perioperative courses for hip fracture patients. However, several shortcomings still exist and can be improved to further decrease negative outcomes.

Declining trend in osteoporosis management and screening following vertebral compression fractures - a national analysis of commercial insurance and medicare advantage beneficiaries

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

Despite the increasing national incidence, osteoporosis and its associated comanagement, often remain an overlooked issue in the orthopedic world. Screening and associated management of osteoporosis is often only considered by providers when patients present with multiple fragility fractures. Current evidence with regard to the trends in screening and medical comanagement/antiosteoporotic therapy of osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (VCFs) remains limited.

PURPOSE

To understand trends, costs, and clinical impact associated the utilization of antiosteoporotic medication and screening with the 1 year following occurrences of sentinel/primary osteoporotic VCFs.

STUDY DESIGN/SETTING

Retrospective review of 2008-2015Q3 Humana Administrative Claims (HAC) database.

PATIENT SAMPLE

The 2008-2015Q3 HAC database was queried using International Classification of Diseases 9th Edition (ICD-9) diagnosis codes 805.2 and 805.4 to identify patients with primary closed osteoporotic thoracolumbar VCFs. Patients with a concurrent diagnosis of trauma and/or malignancy were excluded. Patients experiencing a fragility fracture of the hip, distal radius or proximal humerus, and/or those already on osteoporotic medications within the year before the VCF were excluded to prevent an overlap in the screening and/or antiresorptive medication rates. Finally, only those patients who had complete 2-year follow-up data were analyzed.

OUTCOME MEASURES

To understand trends over time in the utilization of medication for osteoporosis and screening within 1 year following sentinel VCFs. The study also aimed to report per-prescription and per-patient average costs associated with different antiosteoporotic medications. As secondary objectives, we also assessed (1) risk factors associated with not receiving antiosteoporotic medication within the year following sentinel VCFs and (2) differences in rates of experiencing a secondary fragility fracture of vertebrae, hip, distal radius, and proximal humerus between patients who received medication following the sentinel VCF versus those who did not receive any medication.

RESULTS

A total of 6,464 primary osteoporotic VCFs were retrieved from the database. A majority of the VCFs were seen in females (N=5,199; 80.4%). Only 28.8% (N=1,860) patients received some form of medication for osteoporosis medication in the year following the VCF. Over a 6-year interval, treatment with medication for osteoporosis declined from 38% in 2008 to 24% in 2014. The average cost of antiosteoporotic treatment per patient was $1,511. The most commonly prescribed treatment and associated average cost/patient was alendronate sodium (N=1,239; 66.6% to $120/patient). The most costly prescribed treatment was Forteo (N=177; 2.7%) with an average cost/patient of $12,074 and cost/injection being $2,373. Only 36.7% (N=2,371) received a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry/bone density scan in the year following the VCF with an average cost/patient of $76. Risk factors associated with no prescription of medication for osteoporosis within 1 year of VCF were male gender (odds ratio [OR] 1.17 [95% confidence interval {CI} 1.01-1.35]; p=.027), history of cerebrovascular accident/stroke (OR 1.56 [95% CI 1.08-2.32]; p=.022), history of diabetes mellitus (OR 1.28 [95% CI 1.04-1.58]; p=.023). Of note, patients in the West versus Midwest (OR 1.26 [95% CI 1.04-1.51]; p=.016) and commercial insurance beneficiaries (OR 1.95 [95% CI 1.08-3.52]; p=.027) were more likely to receive antiosteoporotic medication. Patients who were placed on antiosteoporotic medication were significantly less likely to suffer a second fragility fracture compared with patients that did not receive medication (OR 0.27 [95% CI 0.24-0.31]; p=.033).

CONCLUSIONS

The proportion of patients starting antiosteoporotic medication within a year after a VCF remains low (28.8%). Furthermore, a declining trend of antiosteoporotic medication prescription was noted over time. Providers who care for patients with sentinel VCFs need to be more diligent in their efforts to diagnose and treat the underlying osteoporosis to reduce the burden of future fragility fractures.

Differences in geometric strength at the contralateral hip between men with hip fracture and non-fractured comparators

Older men sustain excess bone mineral density (BMD) declines after hip fracture; however, BMD provides no information on mechanical structure and strength. The aim was to assess whether changes in hip bone geometry in older men after hip fracture differ than that expected with aging. Two cohorts were used: Baltimore Hip Studies 7th cohort (BHS-7) and Baltimore Men's Osteoporosis Study (MOST). The sample (N = 170) included older Caucasian men with hip fracture that were propensity score matched (1:1) to community-dwelling non-fractured comparators. Hip Structural Analysis (HSA) calculated aerial BMD and metrics of bone structural strength: cross-sectional bone area (CSA), cortical outer diameter (OD), section modulus (SM), and centroid position (CP). Mixed-effect models estimated changes in HSA parameters and adjusted robust regression models evaluated between-cohort differences in annual percent change at the narrow neck (NN), intertrochanteric (IT), and femoral shaft (FS). Hip fracture was associated with statistically greater declines in NN CSA (β = -2.818; 95% CI: -3.300%, -2.336%), SM (β = -1.896%; 95% CI: -2.711%, -1.080%) and CP (β = -0.884%; 95% CI: -0.889%, -0.880%) and significantly larger increases in NN OD (β = 0.187%; 95% CI: 0.185%, 0.190%). Differences in IT HSA parameters were like the NN but larger in magnitude, while there were favorable changes in FS geometry where fragility fractures are rare. Findings indicate there are declines in bone structure and strength at the NN and IT regions of the proximal femur in older men during hip fracture recovery that far exceed what occurs during normal aging.

Chronic prolonged hyponatremia and risk of hip fracture in elderly patients with chronic kidney disease

BACKGROUND

Chronic prolonged hyponatremia (CPH) is a risk factor for hip fracture in the general population. Whether CPH increases hip fracture risk in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients is unknown.

METHODS

Case-control study in patients over 60 years of age with stage 3 or greater CKD. Patients who had a hip fracture were referred to as cases (n = 1236) and controls had no hip fracture (n = 4515). Patients were classified as having CPH if serum sodium was <135 mEq/L on at least two occasions separated by a minimum of 90 days prior to the diagnosis of hip fracture (cases) or at any time during the study period (controls). Conditional logistic regression models were used to test the association between CPH and hip fracture. Analyses were conducted for patients with and without osteoporosis and falls and for patients with age >70 years versus ≤70 years.

RESULTS

CPH was present in 21% of cases and 10% of controls (p < 0.001; sodium level: 131-134 mEq/L). In univariate logistic regression analysis, CPH was associated with higher odds of hip fracture (odds ratio [OR] 2.44, (95% [CI] 2.07-2.89). In a multivariate model adjusted for comorbidities, medications and laboratory parameters CPH association with higher odds of Hip fracture was attenuated but remained significant (OR 1.36, 95% CI 1.04-1.78). The association between CPH and risk of hip fracture was consistent in patients with or without osteoporosis and falls and across the age strata.

CONCLUSION

Chronic prolonged hyponatremia is a risk factor for hip fracture in CKD patients older than 60 years of age.

Factors Associated With Osteoporosis Care of Men Hospitalized for Hip Fracture: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Rates of postfracture DXA and pharmacotherapy appear to be declining despite their known benefits in fracture reduction. We sought to identify factors associated with osteoporosis care among male veterans aged 50 years and older after hip fracture and to evaluate trends in rates of care with an observational cohort design using US Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) inpatient, pharmacy, and outpatient encounters and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services outpatient pharmacy claims (2007 to 2014) from men aged 50 years and older treated for hip fracture (N = 7317). We used the Cox proportional hazards model with random effects for the admitting facility. A sensitivity analysis was performed for a subset of patients aged 65 to 99 dually enrolled in Medicare ( N = 5821). Overall, approximately 13% of patients had evidence of osteoporosis care within one year of fracture. In the adjusted model, rural residence was associated with lower likelihood of care, and several comorbidities were associated with higher likelihood of receiving care. In sensitivity analyses of patients dually enrolled in Medicare, rural residence remained associated with lower likelihood of osteoporosis care. Overall rates of care decreased over time, but rates of DXA in the VA remained stable. These findings highlight the ongoing problem of low rates of postfracture care among a population with the highest risk of future fracture and its associated morbidity and mortality. The rural disparity in care and differences in rates of care across healthcare delivery systems illustrates the importance of healthcare delivery systems in promoting pharmacotherapy and DXA after sentinel events. Because the VA removes a majority of cost barriers to care, this integrated healthcare system may outperform the private sector in access to care. However, declining rates of pharmacotherapy imply knowledge gaps that undermine quality care. © 2019 The Authors. JBMR Plus is published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.

Intensive screening for osteoporosis in patients with hip fracture

Opportunities to evaluate, treat, and prevent future osteoporotic fractures are often being overlooked, especially in patients with a prior osteoporotic fracture. We find that an intensive outreach osteoporosis investigation strategy can help increase the number of patients investigated and treated for osteoporosis following a hip fracture.

PURPOSE

Patients experiencing a hip fracture are subject to an increased risk of subsequent fractures. This suggests an urgent need to develop strategies that will allow a higher number of patients with fragility hip fractures to be investigated and treated for osteoporosis. In accordance, we developed a secondary osteoporosis prevention program and evaluated the results of the program.

METHODS

In the study period, 1071 patients with a hip fracture were admitted to Hvidovre University Hospital. Eligible patients were offered an osteoporosis investigation program, which included a DXA-scan with vertebral fracture assessment and a medical consultation. The data retrieved from this program were registered and analyzed. The primary goal of the study was to describe the number of subjects, who completed the program, and to characterize the initiated osteoporosis treatment. Secondary outcomes evaluated were prevalence of DXA-verified osteoporosis, changes in T-score due to treatment, and 1-year mortality rate.

RESULTS

In total, 557 patients were offered participation of which 333 patients completed the full program. Among these, 159 patients had DXA-verified osteoporosis and 192 patients were started treatment. This resulted in a significant higher T-score at the lumbar spine and femoral neck compared with subjects not treated. Additionally, we report a 1-year mortality rate of 27.7% among all patients with hip fracture.

CONCLUSION

We report that an intensive outreach osteoporosis investigation program can help increase the number of hip fracture patients being tested and treated for osteoporosis. Further, the initiation of treatment can significantly increase the T-score.

A join point regression analysis of trends in mortality due to osteoporosis in Spain

Osteoporosis is a major health problem in terms of fracture probability and disability. The aim of this ecological study is to identify the temporal trends in osteoporosis mortality in Spain from 1999 to 2015. Data on the Spanish population and number of deaths due to osteoporosis were obtained from the Spanish National Institute for Statistics. Age-adjusted mortality rates were estimated. Join point regression was used to identify the years when changes in mortality s and annual percentage change in mortality rates took place. Women presented a greater mortality rate decrease (p < 0.001), though this mortality difference by sex was reduced by half at the end of the period. The higher the age, the faster the mortality rate declined in women, while no clear pattern could be identified in men. In women, significant changes in trends were identified in three age groups (50-54, 60-64 and 80-84 years old). A sustained decrease in osteoporosis-associated mortality was found in women aged 75-79 and ≥85 years and men aged 60-64. In conclusion, mortality caused by osteoporosis in Spain is decreasing faster in the older age ranges especially in women.

Low rates of osteoporosis treatment after hospitalization for hip fracture in Hawaii

We evaluated osteoporosis treatment and DEXA utilization rates of patients who were admitted for hip fracture in a single healthcare system in Hawaii from 2015 to 2016. We found that osteoporosis treatment and DEXA utilization rates were low, highlighting a critical gap in osteoporosis care after admission for hip fracture.

INTRODUCTION

The objective of this study was to evaluate osteoporosis care after an admission for hip fracture at three community hospitals within a single healthcare system in Hawaii.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was conducted (n = 428) of patients ≥ 50 years and hospitalized for hip fractures between January 1, 2015, and May 31, 2016, at three major hospitals within Hawaii Pacific Health, a large healthcare system in Hawaii. Basic demographics were collected, and medications prescribed were quantified and described within 1 year of hip fracture. Logistic regression was used to evaluate the association between collected variables and the odds of osteoporosis treatment.

RESULTS

Only 115 (26.9%) patients were prescribed a medication for osteoporosis as a secondary prevention within a year of hospitalization for hip fracture. DEXA scans were performed in 137 (32.0%) patients. Most of the treated patients were prescribed oral bisphosphonates. Treatment facility, female gender, and higher BMI were found to be predictive factors for osteoporosis treatment.

CONCLUSION

The use of osteoporosis medication for secondary prevention after admission for hip fracture in Hawaii is low. Efforts need to be made to improve treatment rates, especially among males.

Osteoporosis, bone mineral density and CKD-MBD complex (I): Diagnostic considerations

Osteoporosis (OP) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) independently influence bone and cardiovascular health. A considerable number of patients with CKD, especially those with stages 3a to 5D, have a significantly reduced bone mineral density leading to a high risk of fracture and a significant increase in associated morbidity and mortality. Independently of classic OP related to age and/or gender, the mechanical properties of bone are also affected by inherent risk factors for CKD ("uraemic OP"). In the first part of this review, we will analyse the general concepts regarding bone mineral density, OP and fractures, which have been largely undervalued until now by nephrologists due to the lack of evidence and diagnostic difficulties in the context of CKD. It has now been proven that a reduced bone mineral density is highly predictive of fracture risk in CKD patients, although it does not allow a distinction to be made between the causes which generate it (hyperparathyroidism, adynamic bone disease and/or senile osteoporosis, etc.). Therefore, in the second part, we will analyse the therapeutic indications in different CKD stages. In any case, the individual assessment of factors which represent a higher or lower risk of fracture, the quantification of this risk (i.e. using tools such as FRAX^®) and the potential indications for densitometry in patients with CKD could represent an important first step pending new clinical guidelines based on randomised studies which do not exclude CKD patients, all the while avoiding therapeutic nihilism in an area of growing importance.

Older men who sustain a hip fracture experience greater declines in bone mineral density at the contralateral hip than non-fractured comparators

Men experience declining bone mineral density (BMD) after hip fracture; however, changes attributable to fracture are unknown. This study evaluated the excess BMD decline attributable to hip fracture among older men. Older men with hip fracture experienced accelerated BMD declines and are at an increased risk of secondary fractures.

INTRODUCTION

The objective was to determine whether bone mineral density (BMD) changes in men after hip fracture exceed that expected with aging.

METHODS

Two cohorts were used: Baltimore Hip Studies 7th cohort (BHS-7) and Baltimore Men's Osteoporosis Study (MOST). BHS-7 recruited older adults (N = 339) hospitalized for hip fracture; assessments occurred within 22 days of admission and at 2, 6, and 12 months follow-up. MOST enrolled age-eligible men (N = 694) from population-based listings; data were collected at a baseline visit and a second visit that occurred between 10 and 31 months later. The combined sample (n = 452) consisted of Caucasian men from BHS-7 (n = 89) and MOST (n = 363) with ≥ 2 dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scans and overlapping ranges of age, height, and weight. Mixed-effect models estimated rates of BMD change, and generalized linear models evaluated differences in annual bone loss at the total hip and femoral neck between cohorts.

RESULTS

Adjusted changes in total hip and femoral neck BMD were - 4.16% (95% CI, - 4.87 to - 3.46%) and - 4.90% (95% CI, - 5.88 to - 3.92%) in BHS-7 participants; - 1.57% (95% CI, - 2.19 to - 0.96%) and - 0.99% (95% CI, - 1.88 to - 0.10%) in MOST participants; and statistically significant (P < 0.001) between-group differences in change were - 2.59% (95% CI, - 3.26 to - 1.91%) and - 3.91% (95% CI, - 4.83 to - 2.98%), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Hip fracture in older men is associated with accelerated BMD declines at the non-fractured hip that are greater than those expected during aging, and pharmacological interventions in this population to prevent secondary fractures may be warranted.

Gender Disparities in Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a growing health concern worldwide and its complications are as prevalent as other common chronic disease complications such as hypertension and diabetes. In this review, we will discuss the role of gender in osteoporosis, especially related to peak bone mass and maturation, rate of annual bone loss, screening, prevalence of osteoporosis and its related fractures, mortality after osteoporosis-related fracture, fracture risk predication using different technologies and the impact of gender on osteoporosis management.

Difference in the trajectory of change in bone geometry as measured by hip structural analysis in the narrow neck, intertrochanteric region, and femoral shaft between men and women following hip fracture

Prior studies have shown that women have declines in bone structure and strength after hip fracture, but it is unclear whether men sustain similar changes. Therefore, the objective was to examine sex differences in proximal femur geometry following hip fracture. Hip structural analysis was used to derive metrics of bone structure and strength: aerial bone mineral density, cross-sectional bone area (CSA), cortical outer diameter, section modulus (SM), and buckling ratio (BR) from dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry scans performed at baseline (within 22days of hospital admission), two, six, or twelve months after hip fracture in men and women (n=282) enrolled in the Baltimore Hip Studies 7th cohort. Weighted estimating equations were used to evaluate sex differences at the narrow neck (NN), intertrochanteric (IT), and femoral shaft (FS). Men had significantly different one year NN changes compared to women in CSA: -6.33% (-12.47, -0.20) vs. 1.37% (-3.31, 6.43), P=0.049; SM: -4.98% (-11.08, 1.10) vs. 3.94% (-2.51, 10.42), P=0.042; and BR: 7.50% (0.65, 14.36) vs. -1.20% (-6.41, 4.00), P=0.044. One year IT changes displayed similar patterns, but the sex differences were not statistically significant for CSA: -4.07% (-10.83, 2.67) vs. 0.41% (-3.41, 4.24), P=0.252; SM: -4.78% (-12.10, 5.53) vs. -0.31 (-4.74, 4.11), P=0.287; and BR: 4.59% (-0.65, 9.84) vs. 1.52% (-4.23, 7.28), P=0.425. Differences in FS geometric parameters were even smaller in magnitude and not significantly different by sex. Women generally experienced non-significant increases in bone tissue and strength following hip fracture, while men had structural declines that were statistically greater at the NN region. Reductions in the mechanical strength of the proximal femur after hip fracture could put men at higher risk for subsequent fractures of the contralateral hip.

Osteoporosis management in older patients who experienced a fracture

Background

Fractures in older patients are common, morbid, and associated with increased risk of subsequent fractures. Inpatient and outpatient management and treatment of fractures can be costly. With more emphasis placed on quality care for Medicare beneficiaries, we studied if patients were receiving proper screening for osteoporosis and treatment after diagnosis of fracture. This study aims to determine if adequate screening and treatment for osteoporosis occurs in the postfracture period.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of Medicare beneficiaries aged 67 years or older was gathered from a single institution in both inpatient and outpatient visits. Based on International Classification of Diseases ninth revision codes, primary diagnosis of fractures of neck and trunk, upper limb, and lower limb were obtained in addition to current procedural terminology codes for fracture procedures. We studied patients who had been screened for osteoporosis with a bone mineral study or received osteoporosis treatment after their fracture.

Results

Medicare beneficiaries totaling 1,375 patients were determined to have an inclusion fracture between June 1, 2013 and November 30, 2014. At the time of our analysis on December 1, 2014, 1,219 patients were living and included in the analysis. Of these patients, 256 (21.0%) either received osteoporosis testing with bone mineral density or received treatment for osteoporosis. On sex breakdown, 208/820 (25.4%) females received proper evaluation or treatment of osteoporosis in comparison to 48/399 (12.0%) males. This is in comparison to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ national average of 19.1% for osteoporosis management in females.

Conclusion

A minority of studied patients received evaluation or treatment for osteoporosis after their fracture. Postfracture investigation and treatment for osteoporosis in Medicare beneficiaries is inadequate. If improved, Medicare costs could be reduced by prevention of future fractures. Future studies could determine how best to ensure this intervention occurs.

Differences in the trajectory of bone mineral density change measured at the total hip and femoral neck between men and women following hip fracture

Research has not examined changes in bone mineral density (BMD) between men and women following hip fracture. The aim was to evaluate sex differences in BMD following hip fracture. Men experienced significant declines in BMD, while not statistically greater than women, underscoring the necessity for better osteoporosis care in men.

INTRODUCTION

Each year in the USA, approximately 260,000 older adults experience a hip fracture. Women experiencing hip fracture have excess decline in BMD in the year following fracture compared to expected decrements due to aging, but few studies have assessed sex differences in the sequelae of hip fracture. Thus, our objective was to examine sex differences in BMD change in the year after hip fracture.

METHODS

The sample (n = 286) included persons enrolled in the Baltimore Hip Studies 7th cohort, a study that matched (1:1) men and women experiencing hip fracture. Weighted estimating equations that accounted for missing data and selective survival were used to estimate sex differences in 12-month total hip (TH) and femoral neck (FN) BMD changes.

RESULTS

Men had larger average adjusted percent decline in TH and FN BMD. Adjusted 12-month decreases at the FN showed a statistically significant decline of -4.60% (95% confidence interval [CI] -7.76%, -0.20%) in men and an insignificant change of -1.62% (95% CI -4.57%, 1.32%) in women. Yet, the difference in change between men and women was not statistically significant (P = 0.17). The estimated sex differences for TH BMD loss were smaller in magnitude.

CONCLUSIONS

There is evidence of significant BMD loss among men at the FN in the year after hip fracture. Although not statistically greater than women, these clinically significant findings highlight the need for improved osteoporosis care among men prior to and after hip fracture.

Disparities in osteoporosis treatments

Osteoporosis treatment rates within 2 years following an index event (fragility fracture, osteoporotic bone mineral density (BMD) T-score, or osteoporosis ICD-9 codes) were determined from 2005 to 2011. Most patients were not treated. Fracture patients had the lowest treatment rate. Low treatment rates also occurred in patients that were male, black, or had non-commercial insurance.

INTRODUCTION

Clinical recognition of osteoporosis (osteoporotic BMD, assignment of an ICD-9 code, or the occurrence of fragility fractures) provides opportunities to treat patients at risk for future fracture.

METHODS

A cohort of 36,965 patients was identified from 2005 to 2011 in the Indiana Health Information Exchange, with index events after age 50 of either non-traumatic fractures, an osteoporosis ICD-9 code, or a BMD T-score ≤ -2.5. Patients with osteoporosis treatment in the preceding year were excluded. Medication records during the ensuing 2 years were extracted to identify osteoporosis treatments, demographics, comorbidities, and co-medications. Predictors of treatment were evaluated in a multivariable logistic regression model.

RESULTS

The cohort was 78 % female, 11 % black, 91 % urban-dwelling, and 53 % commercially insured. The index events were as follows: osteoporosis diagnosis (47 % of patients), fragility fracture (44 %), and osteoporotic T-scores (9 %). Within 2 years after the index event, 23.3 % received osteoporosis medications (of which, 82.2 % were oral bisphosphonates). Treatment rates were higher after osteoporosis diagnosis codes (29.3 %) or osteoporotic T-score (53.9 %) than after fracture index events (10.5 %) (p < 0.001). Age had an inverted U-shaped effect for women with highest odds around 60-65 years. Women (OR 1.86) and non-black patients (OR 1.52) were more likely to be treated (p < 0.001). Patients with public (versus commercial) insurance (OR 0.86, p < 0.001) or chronic comorbidities (ORs about 0.7-0.9, p < 0.001) were less likely to be treated.

CONCLUSION

Most osteoporosis treatment candidates remained untreated. Men, black patients, and patients with fracture or chronic comorbidities were less likely to receive treatment, representing disparity in the recognition and treatment of osteoporosis.

Treating the Aging Spine

Demographic trends make it incumbent on orthopaedic spine surgeons to recognize the special challenges involved in caring for older patients with spine pathology. Unique pathologies, such as osteoporosis and degenerative deformities, must be recognized and dealt with. Recent treatment options and recommendations for the medical optimization of bone health include vitamin D and calcium supplementation, diphosphonates, and teriparatide. Optimizing spinal fixation in elderly patients with osteoporosis is critical; cement augmentation of pedicle screws is promising. In the management of geriatric odontoid fractures, nonsurgical support with a collar may be considered for the low-demand patient, whereas surgical fixation is favored for high-demand patients. Management of degenerative deformity must address sagittal plane balance, including consideration of pelvic incidence. Various osteotomies may prove helpful in this setting.

The relevance of gender in the care of hip fracture patients

As in many conditions, gender interplays with other social structures of inequality to impact upon women's and men's health and healthcare. This narrative review examines knowledge about sex, gender and hip fracture and suggests ways of highlighting the influence of gender in hip fracture healthcare. These will be considered in relation to two areas. Firstly the multifactorial dimension of hip fractures which identifies ethnicity, marital status, lifestyle, co-morbidities, environment in relation to falls and osteoporosis as important factors influencing the experience of hip fracture. Secondly the importance of acknowledging gender as a key element within research and management of care. Implications for practice are that we need a raised awareness of gender when we assess and care for patients, to ask critical questions about the gender bias in the evidence we use and reflect on how services and care practices may be biased towards gendered assumptions.

Effectiveness of resistance training or jumping-exercise to increase bone mineral density in men with low bone mass: A 12-month randomized, clinical trial

PURPOSE

To examine the effects of 12 mo of resistance training (RT, 2×/wk, N=19) or jump training (JUMP, 3×/wk, N=19) on bone mineral density (BMD) and bone turnover markers (BTM) in physically active (≥ 4h/wk) men (mean age: 44 ± 2 y; median: 44 y) with osteopenia of the hip or spine.

METHODS

Participants rated pain and fatigue following each RT or JUMP session. All participants received supplemental calcium (1200 mg/d) and vitamin D (10 μg/d). BMD was measured at 0, 6, and 12 mo using DXA scans of the whole body (WB), total hip (TH) and lumbar spine (LS). BTM and 25 OHD were measured by ELISA. The effects of RT or JUMP on BMD and BTM were evaluated using 3x2 repeated measures ANOVA (time, group). This study was conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki and was approved by the University of Missouri IRB.

RESULTS

At baseline, 36 of 38 participants were vitamin D sufficient (25OHD >50 nmol/L); at 12 mo, all participants were 25OHD sufficient. 25OHD did not differ between groups. WB and LS BMD significantly increased after 6 months of RT or JUMP and this increase was maintained at 12 mo; TH BMD increased only in RT. Osteocalcin increased significantly after 12 mo of RT or JUMP; CTx decreased significantly after 6 mo and returned to baseline concentrations at 12 mo in both RT and JUMP. Pain and fatigue ratings after RT or JUMP sessions were very low at 0, 6, and 12 mo.

CONCLUSION

RT or JUMP, which appeared safe and feasible, increased BMD of the whole body and lumbar spine, while RT also increased hip BMD, in moderately active, osteopenic men.