Evidence from data searches and life-table analyses for gender-related differences in absolute risk of hip fracture after Colles' or spine fracture: Colles' fracture as an early and sensitive marker of skeletal fragility in white men

Pre-existing osteoporosis and serum vitamin D levels in patients with distal radius fractures: are we missing something?

INTRODUCTION

Given the significant therapeutic gap for osteoporosis, this study aims to investigate the most common osteoporosis-related fracture. The analysis will also consider patients' serum vitamin D levels and the indications for basic osteoporosis diagnostic tests and osteoporosis therapy prior to fracture.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This prospective clinical trial included patients with distal radius fractures who underwent surgery at our hospital between 1 April 2021 and 7 April 2022. Blood samples were taken from all participants and existing risk factors for osteoporosis were recorded. In addition, the indication for a guideline-based osteoporosis diagnosis was assessed and the risk of another future fracture with FRAX® was calculated. This information was used to decide whether there was an indication for specific osteoporosis therapy.

RESULTS

A diagnosis gap of 53% and a treatment gap of 84% were identified among the 102 patients investigated. The patients' ages ranged from 46 to 91 years, with an average vitamin D level of 57 nmol/l, which was below the recommended level of 75 nmol/l. It was noted on a monthly basis that the vitamin D level (without substitution) never exceeded the recommended value of 75 nmol/l in any month. Three-quarters of patients had indications for a baseline osteoporosis diagnosis, yet less than 50% received one. According to FRAX® data, 57% of patients had indications for specific osteoporosis treatment before experiencing the fracture.

CONCLUSION

Even without a previous distal radius fracture, many patients are in need of osteoporosis diagnosis or treatment. Our research suggests that patients with distal radius fractures should have their vitamin D levels checked via a blood test and be evaluated for osteoporosis. As endogenous vitamin D levels are often inadequate, year-round vitamin D supplementation should be considered for the prevention of osteomalacia and as a basis for the treatment of osteoporosis.

GERMAN CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTER ID

DRKS00028085.

Insights and implications of sexual dimorphism in osteoporosis

Osteoporosis, a metabolic bone disease characterized by low bone mineral density and deterioration of bone microarchitecture, has led to a high risk of fatal osteoporotic fractures worldwide. Accumulating evidence has revealed that sexual dimorphism is a notable feature of osteoporosis, with sex-specific differences in epidemiology and pathogenesis. Specifically, females are more susceptible than males to osteoporosis, while males are more prone to disability or death from the disease. To date, sex chromosome abnormalities and steroid hormones have been proven to contribute greatly to sexual dimorphism in osteoporosis by regulating the functions of bone cells. Understanding the sex-specific differences in osteoporosis and its related complications is essential for improving treatment strategies tailored to women and men. This literature review focuses on the mechanisms underlying sexual dimorphism in osteoporosis, mainly in a population of aging patients, chronic glucocorticoid administration, and diabetes. Moreover, we highlight the implications of sexual dimorphism for developing therapeutics and preventive strategies and screening approaches tailored to women and men. Additionally, the challenges in translating bench research to bedside treatments and future directions to overcome these obstacles will be discussed.

Previous fracture and subsequent fracture risk: a meta-analysis to update FRAX

A large international meta-analysis using primary data from 64 cohorts has quantified the increased risk of fracture associated with a previous history of fracture for future use in FRAX.

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to quantify the fracture risk associated with a prior fracture on an international basis and to explore the relationship of this risk with age, sex, time since baseline and bone mineral density (BMD).

METHODS

We studied 665,971 men and 1,438,535 women from 64 cohorts in 32 countries followed for a total of 19.5 million person-years. The effect of a prior history of fracture on the risk of any clinical fracture, any osteoporotic fracture, major osteoporotic fracture, and hip fracture alone was examined using an extended Poisson model in each cohort. Covariates examined were age, sex, BMD, and duration of follow-up. The results of the different studies were merged by using the weighted β-coefficients.

RESULTS

A previous fracture history, compared with individuals without a prior fracture, was associated with a significantly increased risk of any clinical fracture (hazard ratio, HR = 1.88; 95% CI = 1.72-2.07). The risk ratio was similar for the outcome of osteoporotic fracture (HR = 1.87; 95% CI = 1.69-2.07), major osteoporotic fracture (HR = 1.83; 95% CI = 1.63-2.06), or for hip fracture (HR = 1.82; 95% CI = 1.62-2.06). There was no significant difference in risk ratio between men and women. Subsequent fracture risk was marginally downward adjusted when account was taken of BMD. Low BMD explained a minority of the risk for any clinical fracture (14%), osteoporotic fracture (17%), and for hip fracture (33%). The risk ratio for all fracture outcomes related to prior fracture decreased significantly with adjustment for age and time since baseline examination.

CONCLUSION

A previous history of fracture confers an increased risk of fracture of substantial importance beyond that explained by BMD. The effect is similar in men and women. Its quantitation on an international basis permits the more accurate use of this risk factor in case finding strategies.

Executive summary: Italian guidelines for diagnosis, risk stratification, and care continuity of fragility fractures 2021

Background

Fragility fractures are a major public health concern owing to their worrying and growing burden and their onerous burden upon health systems. There is now a substantial body of evidence that individuals who have already suffered a fragility fracture are at a greater risk for further fractures, thus suggesting the potential for secondary prevention in this field.

Purpose

This guideline aims to provide evidence-based recommendations for recognizing, stratifying the risk, treating, and managing patients with fragility fracture. This is a summary version of the full Italian guideline.

Methods

The Italian Fragility Fracture Team appointed by the Italian National Health Institute was employed from January 2020 to February 2021 to (i) identify previously published systematic reviews and guidelines on the field, (ii) formulate relevant clinical questions, (iii) systematically review literature and summarize evidence, (iv) draft the Evidence to Decision Framework, and (v) formulate recommendations.

Results

Overall, 351 original papers were included in our systematic review to answer six clinical questions. Recommendations were categorized into issues concerning (i) frailty recognition as the cause of bone fracture, (ii) (re)fracture risk assessment, for prioritizing interventions, and (iii) treatment and management of patients experiencing fragility fractures. Six recommendations were overall developed, of which one, four, and one were of high, moderate, and low quality, respectively.

Conclusions

The current guidelines provide guidance to support individualized management of patients experiencing non-traumatic bone fracture to benefit from secondary prevention of (re)fracture. Although our recommendations are based on the best available evidence, questionable quality evidence is still available for some relevant clinical questions, so future research has the potential to reduce uncertainty about the effects of intervention and the reasons for doing so at a reasonable cost.

Adjusting conventional FRAX estimates of fracture probability according to the number of prior fractures

The risk of a recurrent fragility fracture is high following a first fracture and higher still with more than one prior fracture. This study provides adjustments to FRAX-based fracture probabilities accounting for the number of prior fractures.

INTRODUCTION

Prior fractures increase subsequent fracture risk. The aim of this study was to quantify the effect of the number of prior fractures on the 10-year probability of fracture determined with FRAX®.

METHODS

The study used data from the Reykjavik Study fracture register that documented prospectively all fractures at all skeletal sites in a large sample of the population of Iceland. Ten-year probabilities of hip fracture and major osteoporotic fracture (MOF) were determined according to the number of prior osteoporotic fractures over a 20-year interval from the hazards of death and fracture. Fracture probabilities were also computed for a prior osteoporotic fracture irrespective of the number of previous fractures. The probability ratios provided adjustments to conventional FRAX estimates of fracture probability according to the number of prior fractures.

RESULTS

Probability ratios to adjust 10-year FRAX probabilities of a hip fracture and MOF increased with the number of prior fractures but decreased with age in both men and women. Probability ratios were similar in men and women and for hip fracture and MOF. Mean probability ratios according to the number of prior fractures for all scenarios were 0.95, 1.08, 1.21 and 1.35, for 1,2, 3 and 4 or more prior fractures, respectively. Thus, a simple rule of thumb is to downward adjust FRAX-based fracture probabilities by 5% in the presence of a single prior fracture and to uplift probabilities by 10, 20 and 30% with a history of 2, 3 and 4 or more prior fractures, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The probability ratios provide adjustments to conventional FRAX estimates of fracture probability according to the number of prior fractures.

Health screening of middle-aged women: what factors impact longevity?

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to measure the impact of different risk factors in middle-aged women on longevity evaluated after three decades of an initial health screening.

METHODS

Women who received an annual check-up between 1990 and 1993 were recruited. Anamnesis and physical examination were recorded. Blood samples for the measurement of glycemia and lipids were taken. Data are reported as of December 2021.

RESULTS

A total of 1,158 women aged 40 to 60 were studied. At 30.9 years of follow-up, the Kaplan-Meier overall survival was 75.6% (95% confidence interval, 72.6-78.3). The main causes of the 260 deaths observed were the following: cancer ( n = 88; 33.8%), cardiovascular disease ( n = 55; 21.2%), and infectious disease ( n = 41; 15.8%). The following hazard ratios were found with the flexible parametric survival model: personal history of fracture (hazard ratio, 2.55; 95% confidence interval, 1.29-5.02; P = 0.007), type 2 diabetes mellitus (2.14; 1.18-3.88; P = 0.012), personal history of heart disease (1.85; 1.09-3.13; P = 0.022), chronic arterial hypertension (1.65; 1.25-2.17; P < 0.001), postmenopausal status (1.60; 1.13-2.26; P = 0.008), unskilled jobs (1.56; 1.17-2.07; P = 0.002), cigarette smoking (1.51; 1.17-1.94; P = 0.002), age (1.06; 1.03-1.09; P < 0.001), body mass index (1.04; 1.01-1.07; P = 0.004), multiparous (0.72; 0.56-0.93; P = 0.012), and active sexual intercourse (0.68; 0.52-0.87; P = 0.003). Lipid disorders did not reach statistical significance as a risk factor.

CONCLUSIONS

In this cohort, it was observed that most of the classic risk factors for mortality were present. However, a history of fracture appears in middle-aged women as a strong predictor of mortality, surpassing diabetes and arterial hypertension. Multiparity, on the other hand, was a protective factor.

The Effect of Fracture Recency on Observed 10-Year Fracture Probability: A Registry-Based Cohort Study

FRAX estimates 10-year fracture major osteoporotic fracture (MOF) and hip fracture probability from multiple risk factors. FRAX does not consider prior fracture site or time since fracture. Fracture risk is greater in the initial 2-year post-fracture period (imminent risk), implying that FRAX may underestimate risk in this setting. We used the population-based Manitoba Bone Mineral Density (BMD) Program registry to examine the effect of fracture recency and site on incident fracture risk predictions using FRAX. We identified women aged 40 years or older with baseline BMD and FRAX scores. Observed fracture outcomes to 10 years were compared with predicted 10-year fracture probability stratified by prior fracture status: none, recent (<2 years [median 0.3 years]), and remote (≥2 years [median 10.6 years]). For women with recent fractures, we also examined proposed multipliers to adjust FRAX for the effect of fracture recency and site. The cohort comprised 33,465 women aged 40 to 64 years (1897 recent fracture, 2120 remote fracture) and 33,806 women aged ≥65 years (2365 fracture, 4135 remote fracture). Observed fracture probability was consistent with predicted probability in most analyses. In women aged 40 to 64 years, there was a significant effect of recent vertebral and humerus fracture on MOF (observed to predicted 1.61 and 1.48, respectively), but these effects were still lower than the proposed multipliers (2.32 and 1.67, respectively). No significant effect of fracture recency was found after hip or forearm fracture in either age group. Our findings contribute to accumulating evidence of the importance of recent fracture. The effect of fracture recency was not consistent across fracture sites and with a lower magnitude than previously reported. Further quantification of effect size and specificity in additional independent cohorts is warranted to validate and refine recent-fracture multipliers in fracture risk assessment. © 2022 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).

Prevalence, Characteristics, and Associated Risk Factors of Wrist Fractures in Americans Above 50: The Cross-Sectional NHANES Study

SUMMARY

By analyzing data from NHANES, we aimed to evaluate the prevalence, characteristics, and associated factors of wrist fractures in Americans aged 50 and above.

INTRODUCTION

Wrist fractures, whose prevalence increases with age, are one of the most common fractures in the United States. However, epidemiological studies on the prevalence of wrist fractures of certain ages were limited.

METHODS

The data of Americans aged 50 or above from 2013-2014 and 2017-2018 in NHANES were extracted and analyzed.

RESULTS

The prevalence of wrist fractures among Americans whose age was 50 or above was 12%, which was similar between men and women (men 12.8% vs. women 11.4%, p = 0.267). Among those who had experienced their first wrist fracture, 17.8% of the population experienced a second wrist fracture. The top two causes of the first wrist fracture were a fall from a standing height (56%) or a hard fall (34.8%). The prevalence of wrist fractures was higher in men than in women (13.7% versus 8.7%, p = 0.023) aged < 60, but higher in women than in men aged ≥ 60 (11.8% versus 14.3%, p = 0.007). Multivariate analysis showed that obesity, frequent drinking, current smoking, high serum phosphate level, non-Hispanic white women, and osteoporosis were independently associated with wrist fractures. Stratified by race, osteoporosis, frequent drinking, and high serum phosphate level were risk factors for wrist fractures in all races. As for Mexican Americans, non-Hispanic whites, and other races including multi-racial, current smoking was a risk factor of wrist factures. Furthermore, obesity was positively associated with wrist fractures in Mexican Americans, other Hispanics, and non-Hispanic whites.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of wrist fractures in Americans aged 50 and above was 12%. Falling from a standing height was the main cause of the first wrist fracture. Frequent drinking, current smoker, high serum phosphate level, osteoporosis, obesity, and non-Hispanic women were more likely to experience wrist fractures.

Cortical bone thickness of the distal radius predicts the local bone mineral density

AIMS

The distal radius is a major site of osteoporotic bone loss resulting in a high risk of fragility fracture. This study evaluated the capability of a cortical index (CI) at the distal radius to predict the local bone mineral density (BMD).

METHODS

A total of 54 human cadaver forearms (ten singles, 22 pairs) (19 to 90 years) were systematically assessed by clinical radiograph (XR), dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), CT, as well as high-resolution peripheral quantitative CT (HR-pQCT). Cortical bone thickness (CBT) of the distal radius was measured on XR and CT scans, and two cortical indices mean average (CBTavg) and gauge (CBTg) were determined. These cortical indices were compared to the BMD of the distal radius determined by DXA (areal BMD (aBMD)) and HR-pQCT (volumetric BMD (vBMD)). Pearson correlation coefficient (r) and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) were used to compare the results and degree of reliability.

RESULTS

The CBT could accurately be determined on XRs and highly correlated to those determined on CT scans (r = 0.87 to 0.93). The CBTavg index of the XRs significantly correlated with the BMD measured by DXA (r = 0.78) and HR-pQCT (r = 0.63), as did the CBTg index with the DXA (r = 0.55) and HR-pQCT (r = 0.64) (all p < 0.001). A high correlation of the BMD and CBT was observed between paired specimens (r = 0.79 to 0.96). The intra- and inter-rater reliability was excellent (ICC 0.79 to 0.92).

CONCLUSION

The cortical index (CBTavg) at the distal radius shows a close correlation to the local BMD. It thus can serve as an initial screening tool to estimate the local bone quality if quantitative BMD measurements are unavailable, and enhance decision-making in acute settings on fracture management or further osteoporosis screening. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2021;10(12):820-829.

Impact of non-hip fractures in elderly women: a narrative review

The association of hip fractures with adverse outcomes is well established, but for non-hip fractures this association still needs to be further investigated. The objective of this narrative review is to describe the state of the art with regards to the health impact of clinically relevant non-hip fracture locations in postmenopausal women. PubMed and Scopus databases were searched from January 2010 until December 2020. Studies were included when the crude rates and/or relative risk of 1-year subsequent fractures and/or mortality were reported as well as the precise fracture site. Twenty-three studies met the inclusion criteria. Regarding mortality rates, there was a high variability between studies, with higher rates for vertebral, proximal humerus and pelvic fractures. There was a small or no impact of wrist, ankle or tibia fractures. The mortality rate increased with age after vertebral, proximal humerus and wrist fractures. Moreover, proximal humerus and vertebral fractures were associated with a higher mortality risk. This narrative review indicates that, besides fractures of the hip, fractures of the vertebrae, proximal humerus or pelvis deserve more attention when trying to prevent adverse outcomes of osteoporosis. More studies on the topic of non-hip fractures are urgently needed.

Sex differences in incidence rate, and temporal changes in surgical management and adverse events after hip fracture surgery in Denmark 1997-2017: a register-based study of 153,058 hip fracture patients

Background and purpose - Extensive research and national multidisciplinary programs have striven to introduce uniform standards of treatment and mitigate mortality and adverse events after hip fracture surgery over the past decades. A large-scale overview of temporal developments in hip fracture surgery and care is warranted.Patients and methods - We studied Danish patients aged ≥ 60 years, sustaining their first ever hip fracture between 1997 and 2017. Patients were identified from the Danish National Patient Registry (DNPR). Incidence rates of first hip fracture were calculated per 1,000 patient-years and stratified by age group and sex. Information on pre-injury living settings, comorbidities, and medications were obtained from national administrative registers. Type of fracture and treatment choice were recorded, and patients were followed for 1 year to observe mortality, readmission, and surgical complications.Results - Data from 153,058 patients was analyzed. Incidence rate decreased in both sexes, but only led to a reduction in the annual number of hip fractures in the female population. Choice of surgery shifted away from sliding hip screws and parallel implants (SHS-PI), towards intramedullary nailing and hemi-/arthroplasties for trochanteric and femoral neck fractures, respectively. Pre-injury diagnosed morbidity and 1-year readmissions increased contrary to mortality. Median age remained stable around 83 (IQR 77-88) for women and 80 (IQR 73-86) for men.Interpretation - Over the past 2 decades important aspects of hip fracture management have improved. However, sex differences were observed, and men remain more vulnerable than women in terms of morbidity, mortality, and incidence rate.

The effect on subsequent fracture risk of age, sex, and prior fracture site by recency of prior fracture

The risk of a recurrent fragility fracture varies by age and sex, as by site and recency of sentinel fracture.

INTRODUCTION

The recency of prior fractures affects subsequent fracture risk. Variable recency may obscure other factors that affect subsequent fracture risk. The aim of this study was to quantify the effect of a sentinel fracture by site, age, and sex where the recency was held constant.

METHODS

The study used data from the Reykjavik Study fracture register that documented prospectively all fractures at all skeletal sites in a large sample of the population of Iceland. Fracture incidence was compared to that of the general population determined at fixed times after a sentinel fracture (humeral, clinical vertebral, forearm, hip, and minor fractures). Outcome fractures comprised a major osteoporotic fracture and hip fracture.

RESULTS

Sentinel osteoporotic fractures were identified in 9504 men and women. Of these, 3616 individuals sustained a major osteoporotic fracture as the first subsequent fracture, of whom 1799 sustained a hip fracture. Hazard ratios for prior fracture were consistently higher in men than in women and decreased progressively with age. Hazard ratios varied according to the site of sentinel fracture with higher ratios for hip and vertebral fracture than for humerus, forearm, or minor osteoporotic fracture.

CONCLUSION

The risk of a recurrent fragility fracture varies by age, sex, and site of sentinel fracture when recency is held constant.

High Risk of Hip and Spinal Fractures after Distal Radius Fracture: A Longitudinal Follow-Up Study Using a National Sample Cohort

The purpose of the present study was to estimate the risk of hip and spinal fracture after distal radius fracture. Data from the Korean National Health Insurance Service—National Sample Cohort were collected between 2002 and 2013. A total of 8013 distal radius fracture participants who were 50 years of age or older were selected. The distal radius fracture participants were matched for age, sex, income, region of residence, and past medical history in a 1:4 ratio with control participants. In the subgroup analysis, participants were stratified according to age group (50–59, 60–69, or ≥70 years) and sex (male or female). Distal radius fracture patients had a 1.51-fold and 1.40-fold higher incidence of hip fracture and spinal fracture in the adjusted models, respectively. Among males, patients of all ages had a significantly higher incidence of hip fracture, and those who were 50 to 69 years of age had a significantly higher incidence of spinal fracture. Among females, those older than 70 years had a significantly higher incidence of hip fracture, and patients of all ages had a significantly higher incidence of spinal fracture. Previous distal radius fracture has a significant impact on the risk of subsequent hip and spinal fractures.

Development of the Home Fall Hazard Checklist

Objective

Home hazard assessment is particularly important following a fracture as a means of preventing subsequent fractures. The purpose of this study was to evaluate current checklists and evidence on home hazard to develop a usable self-administered checklist that could be used by adults to assess home hazards.

Design

Review and observational, prospective study. Setting. Community dwelling. Participants. Nine adults (4 men, 5 women) were asked to review the checklist and provide feedback on whether items were relevant, comprehensive, and easy to understand. Intervention. A search for literature examining the causes of falls that focused on home hazards or behaviours was conducted, and causes were extracted. Using the combined list of home hazards, a draft checklist was created. The participants were asked to pilot the checklist through their home. Primary and Secondary Outcome. An initial iteration of the checklist was modified to reduce redundancy (by grouping certain items together), improve usability (by adding a “not applicable category”), and improve readability (by removing double-barrelled questions or rewriting certain items).

Results

This process resulted in 74 items in 10 areas. On average, it took 10 minutes for the participants to complete the home walk-through while filling out the checklist.

Conclusion

The fall hazard-home checklist is a new checklist designed to identify home fall hazards with the intended use of being either administered by self-report through memory or supported by a walk-about, and that could potentially be completed by a patient who has incurred a fall, fracture, a family member, or caregiver. Given the expense of home hazard assessments that involve a home visit, the validity of this method of detection warrants further investigation.

The use of 2-, 5-, and 10-year probabilities to characterize fracture risk after a recent sentinel fracture

The increase in fracture risk associated with a recent fragility fracture is more appropriately captured using a 10-year fracture probability than 2- or 5-year probabilities.

INTRODUCTION

The recency of prior fractures affects subsequent fracture risk. The aim of this study was to quantify the effect of a recent sentinel fracture, by site, on the 2-, 5-, and 10-year probability of fracture.

METHODS

The study used data from the Reykjavik Study fracture register that documented prospectively all fractures at all skeletal sites in a large sample of the population of Iceland. Fracture probabilities were determined after a sentinel fracture (humeral, clinical vertebral, forearm and hip fracture) occurring within the previous 2 years and probabilities for a prior osteoporotic fracture irrespective of recency. The probability ratios were used to adjust fracture probabilities over a 2-, 5-, and 10-year time horizon.

RESULTS

As expected, probabilities decreased with decreasing time horizon. Probability ratios varied according to age and the site of sentinel fracture. Probability ratios to adjust for a prior fracture within the previous 2 years were higher the shorter the time horizon, but the absolute increases in fracture probabilities were much reduced. Thus, fracture probabilities were substantially lower with time horizons less than 10 years.

CONCLUSION

The 10-year probability of fractures is the appropriate metric to capture the impact of the recency of sentinel fractures. The probability ratios provide adjustments to conventional FRAX estimates of fracture probability for recent sentinel fractures, adjustments which can readily inform clinical decision-making.

High Luteinizing Hormone and Lower Levels of Sex Hormones in Younger Men With Distal Radius Fracture

This study investigates the sex steroid hormone profile in younger men with distal radius fracture (DRF) to elucidate if this could explain the low bone density and osteoporosis previously observed. In a case-control study, 73 men with DRF (mean age 38 ± 9 years; range, 20-51) was compared with 194 age-matched, population controls. Performed assays: total testosterone (TT), calculated free testosterone (cFT), luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), and total estradiol (E2). BMD hip and spine were measured. Fracture cases had lower cFT (298 versus 329 pmol/L; p = 0.008), but not TT, compared with controls. FSH and SHBG were not statistically different. LH was almost 30% higher (5.7 versus 4.5 IU/L; p < 0.001) and a lower E2 was observed (80.0 versus 87.1; p = 0.098). Men with DRF had a lower E2/SHBG ratio compared with controls (2.3 versus 2.9; p = 0.013). A higher proportion of the fracture group had low TT (<10.5 nmol/L; 21% versus 11%; p = 0.052), low cFT (<220 pmol/L; 18% versus 8%; p = 0.017), and low E2 (<73 pmol/L; 48% versus 35%; p = 0.044). Odds ratio (OR) for fracture when having low cFT was 2.3 (95% CI, 1.02-5.49; p = 0.044); with low E2, the OR was 1.7 (95% CI, 0.96-2.96). In this study in young men with DRF exploring sex hormone levels, we find that sex hormone profiles may be disturbed with a lower E2/SHBG ratio, lower cFT, and higher LH. Estrogen is also a strong determinant of bone mass in men; hence, low levels of E2 may be contributing to the observed lower BMD and these differences may be relevant to fracture risk. © 2020 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.

Adjusting conventional FRAX estimates of fracture probability according to the recency of sentinel fractures

The risk of a recurrent fragility fracture is particularly high immediately following the fracture. This study provides adjustments to FRAX-based fracture probabilities accounting for the site of a recent fracture.

INTRODUCTION

The recency of prior fractures affects subsequent fracture risk. The aim of this study was to quantify the effect of a recent sentinel fracture, by site, on the 10-year probability of fracture determined with FRAX.

METHODS

The study used data from the Reykjavik Study fracture register that documented prospectively all fractures at all skeletal sites in a large sample of the population of Iceland. Fracture probabilities were determined after a sentinel fracture (humeral, clinical vertebral, forearm and hip fracture) from the hazards of death and fracture. Fracture probabilities were computed on the one hand for sentinel fractures occurring within the previous 2 years and on the other hand, probabilities for a prior osteoporotic fracture irrespective of recency. The probability ratios provided adjustments to conventional FRAX estimates of fracture probability for recent sentinel fractures.

RESULTS

Probability ratios to adjust 10-year FRAX probabilities of a major osteoporotic fracture for recent sentinel fractures were age dependent, decreasing with age in both men and women. Probability ratios varied according to the site of sentinel fracture with higher ratios for hip and vertebral fracture than for humerus or forearm fracture. Probability ratios to adjust 10-year FRAX probabilities of a hip fracture for recent sentinel fractures were also age dependent, decreasing with age in both men and women with the exception of forearm fractures.

CONCLUSION

The probability ratios provide adjustments to conventional FRAX estimates of fracture probability for recent sentinel fractures.

Therapist's practice patterns for subsequent fall/osteoporotic fracture prevention for patients with a distal radius fracture

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional survey.

INTRODUCTION

Multifactorial risk factor screening and treatment is needed for subsequent falls/osteoporotic fractures prevention (SFOFP), given the elevated risk among patients with distal radius fracture (DRF).

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

The primary objective was to describe hand therapists' knowledge and clinical practice patterns for assessment, treatment, referral, and education with respect to SFOFP for patients with DRF older than 45 years. Secondary objective was to explore therapist's preferences in content and delivery of knowledge translation tools that would support implementation of SFOFP.

METHODS

A cross-sectional multinational (Canada, the United States, and India) survey was conducted among 272 therapists from August to October 2014. Completed surveys were analyzed descriptively.

RESULTS

Surveys were completed by 157 therapists. Most respondents were from the United States (59%), certified hand therapists (54%), and females (87%). Although 65%-90% believed that they had knowledge about SFOFP assessment, treatment, and referral options, 55% did not include it in their routine practice for patients with DRF. Most assessed medication history (82%) and never used a Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (90%) or lower extremity muscle strength testing (54%) to identify those at risk of secondary fractures. With respect to treatment, approximately 33% always used upper extremity muscle strengthening exercises. Most reported rarely (sometimes to never) using balance (79%), lower extremity muscle strengthening (85%), bone strengthening (54%), or community-based physical activity (72%) programs. Similarly, when surveyed about patient education, therapists rarely (sometimes to never) advised patients about web-based resources (94%), regular vision testing (92%), diet for good bone health (87%), bone density evaluation (86%), footwear correction (73%), and hazard identification (67%). Most hand therapists were interested to receive more information on SFOFP for patients with DRF. Nearly one-half preferred to have Web sites for patients, and two-fifth were in favor of pamphlets for patients.

CONCLUSION

Current practice patterns reveal care gaps and limited implementation with respect to SFOFP for patients with DRF. Future research should focus on web-based educational/knowledge translation strategies to promote implementation of multifactorial fall risk screening and hand therapist's engagement in SFOFP for patients with DRF.

Peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT)-based finite element analysis provides enhanced diagnostic performance in identifying non-vertebral fracture patients compared with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry

Due to limitations of the predominant clinical method for diagnosing osteoporosis, an engineering model based on a dedicated CT scanner for bone density and structure was applied in fracture patients and controls. Improved diagnostic performance was observed, which supports its potential use in future research and clinical practice.

INTRODUCTION

Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), the predominant clinical method for diagnosing osteoporosis, has limitations in identifying individuals with increased fracture risk. Peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT) provides additional information and can be used to generate finite element (FE) models from which bone strength properties can be estimated. We investigated the ability of pQCT-FE properties to distinguish peripheral low-trauma fracture patients from healthy controls, by comparison with DXA and standard pQCT.

METHODS

One hundred and eight fracture patients (77 females aged 67.7 ± 7.9 years, 31 males aged 69.7 ± 8.9 years) were recruited from a hospital fracture liaison service. One hundred and twenty healthy community controls (85 females aged 69.8 ± 8.5 years, 35 males aged 68.9 ± 7.2 years) were recruited.

RESULTS

Significant differences between groups were observed in pQCT-FE properties, especially at the 4% tibia site. Fracture odds increased most per standard deviation decrease in pQCT-FE at this location [shear stiffness estimate, k_shear, in females, OR = 10.34, 95% CI (1.91, 43.98); bending stiffness estimate, k_bend, in males, OR = 8.32, 95% CI (4.15, 33.84)]. Area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUROC) was observed to be highest with pQCT-FE properties at 4% the tibia site. In females, this was 0.83 for the pQCT-FE variable k_shear, compared with 0.72 for DXA total hip bone density (TH aBMD) and 0.76 for pQCT tibia trabecular density (Trb vBMD); in males, this was 0.81 for the pQCT-FE variable k_bend at the 4% tibia site, compared with 0.62 for TH aBMD and 0.71 for Trb vBMD. There were significant differences in AUROC between DXA and pQCT-FE variables in both females (p = 0.02) and males (p = 0.03), while no difference was observed in AUROC between primary pQCT and pQCT-FE variables.

CONCLUSIONS

pQCT-FE modeling can provide enhanced diagnostic performance compared with DXA and, given its moderate cost, may be useful in clinical settings.

Importance of Recent Fracture as Predictor of Imminent Fracture Risk

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To examine the importance of recent fracture as a predictor of imminent fracture risk, review the importance of prior fracture type and timing, and identify risk factors for recurrent osteoporotic fracture.

RECENT FINDINGS

Prior fracture type and timing impact risk of subsequent fracture that is largely independent of bone mineral density. Site of re-fracture is similar to original major osteoporotic fracture. Incidence of recurrent major osteoporotic fracture is greatest within the first year. Other risk factors include those that pertain to individual characteristics. Approved osteoporosis therapies reduce risk of recurrent fracture. Prior fracture timing, type, and individual characteristics are important components of predicting the risk of future fracture. Initiation of osteoporosis medication therapy should be started after initial fracture to reduce the risk of future fracture, though these medications typically take 6-12 months to have an effect, during which time is the highest rate of imminent re-fracture.

Characteristics of recurrent fractures

The present study, drawn from a sample of the Icelandic population, quantified high immediate risk and utility loss of subsequent fracture after a sentinel fracture (at the hip, spine, distal forearm and humerus) that attenuated with time.

INTRODUCTION

The risk of a subsequent osteoporotic fracture is particularly acute immediately after an index fracture and wanes progressively with time. The aim of this study was to quantify the risk and utility consequences of subsequent fracture after a sentinel fracture (at the hip, spine, distal forearm and humerus) with an emphasis on the time course of recurrent fracture.

METHODS

The Reykjavik Study fracture registration, drawn from a sample of the Icelandic population (n = 18,872), recorded all fractures of the participants from their entry into the study until December 31, 2012. Medical records for the participants were manually examined and verified. First sentinel fractures were identified. Subsequent fractures, deaths, 10-year probability of fracture and cumulative disutility using multipliers derived from the International Costs and Utilities Related to Osteoporotic fractures Study (ICUROS) were examined as a function of time after fracture, age and sex.

RESULTS

Over 10 years, subsequent fractures were sustained in 28% of 1498 individuals with a sentinel hip fracture. For other sentinel fractures, the proportion ranged from 35 to 38%. After each sentinel fracture, the risk of subsequent fracture was highest in the immediate post fracture interval and decreased markedly with time. Thus, amongst individuals who sustained a recurrent fracture, 31-45% did so within 1 year of the sentinel fracture. Hazard ratios for fracture recurrence (population relative risks) were accordingly highest immediately after the sentinel fracture (2.6-5.3, depending on the site of fracture) and fell progressively over 10 years (1.5-2.2). Population relative risks also decreased progressively with age. The utility loss during the first 10 years after a sentinel fracture varied by age (less with age) and sex (greater in women). In women at the age of 70 years, the mean utility loss due to fractures in the whole cohort was 0.081 whereas this was 12-fold greater in women with a sentinel hip fracture, and was increased 15-fold for spine fracture, 4-fold for forearm fracture and 8-fold for humeral fracture.

CONCLUSION

High fracture risks and utility loss immediately after fracture suggest that treatment given as soon as possible after fracture would avoid a higher number of new fractures compared with treatment given later. This provides the rationale for very early intervention immediately after a sentinel fracture.

Risk factors predicting subsequent falls and osteoporotic fractures at 4 years after distal radius fracture-a prospective cohort study

In a prospective cohort of 113 patients followed 4 years after distal radius fracture (DRF), 24% of patients experienced a subsequent fall and 19% experienced a subsequent fracture. People with poor balance, greater fracture-specific pain/disability, low bone density, and prior falls had nearly a three times higher risk of subsequent falls.

PURPOSE

To determine the extent to which modifiable risk factors alone or in combination with bone mineral density (BMD) and non-modifiable risk factors predict subsequent falls and osteoporotic (OP) fractures after distal radius fracture (DRF).

METHODS

We assessed a cohort of patients (n = 191; mean age = 62 ± 8 years; female = 88%) shortly after DRF (baseline) and again at 4 years to identify subsequent falls or OP fractures. Baseline predictors included age, sex, prior falls, and modifiable risk factors such as balance, muscle strength, physical activity, fear of falling, BMD, fracture-specific pain/disability, and general health status. Univariate, multivariate, and stepwise logistic regression analyses were conducted to compute odds ratio (OR) with 95% CI to determine the extent of association between the risk factors and outcomes.

RESULTS

Among the 113 patients, who completed 4-year follow-up, 24% reported ≥ 1 subsequent fall and 19% reported ≥ 1 subsequent fracture. Significant predictors of subsequent falls included poor balance (OR = 3.3), low total hip BMD (OR = 3.3), high patient-rated wrist evaluation (PRWE) score (OR = 3.0), and prior falls (OR = 3.4). When adjusted for BMD, age, and sex; only prior falls (OR = 4.1) remained a significant independent predictor of future falls. None of the modifiable or non-modifiable risk factors were significantly associated with subsequent fractures.

CONCLUSION

Prior falls (≥ 2) is an independent predictor of subsequent falls in patients with DRF. In clinical practice, screening of patients for prior falls, balance, fracture-specific pain/disability, and BMD may identify those who might be at risk of subsequent falls after their first DRF.

Does regional loss of bone density explain low trauma distal forearm fractures in men (the Mr F study)?

The pathogenesis of low trauma wrist fractures in men is not fully understood. This study found that these men have lower bone mineral density at the forearm itself, as well as the hip and spine, and has shown that forearm bone mineral density is the best predictor of wrist fracture.

INTRODUCTION

Men with distal forearm fractures have reduced bone density at the lumbar spine and hip sites, an increased risk of osteoporosis and a higher incidence of further fractures. The aim of this case-control study was to investigate whether or not there is a regional loss of bone mineral density (BMD) at the forearm between men with and without distal forearm fractures.

METHODS

Sixty-one men with low trauma distal forearm fracture and 59 age-matched bone healthy control subjects were recruited. All subjects underwent a DXA scan of forearm, hip and spine, biochemical investigations, health questionnaires, SF-36v2 and Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX). The non-fractured arm was investigated in subjects with fracture and both forearms in control subjects.

RESULTS

BMD was significantly lower at the ultradistal forearm in men with fracture compared to control subjects, in both the dominant (mean (SD) 0.386 g/cm² (0.049) versus 0.436 g/cm² (0.054), p < 0.001) and non-dominant arm (mean (SD) 0.387 g/cm² (0.060) versus 0.432 g/cm² (0.061), p = 0.001). Fracture subjects also had a significantly lower BMD at hip and spine sites compared with control subjects. Logistic regression analysis showed that the best predictor of forearm fracture was ultradistal forearm BMD (OR = 0.871 (0.805-0.943), p = 0.001), with the likelihood of fracture decreasing by 12.9% for every 0.01 g/cm² increase in ultradistal forearm BMD.

CONCLUSIONS

Men with low trauma distal forearm fracture have significantly lower regional BMD at the ultradistal forearm, which contributes to an increased forearm fracture risk. They also have generalised reduction in BMD, so that low trauma forearm fractures in men should be considered as indicator fractures for osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis in men

Osteoporotic fractures are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality among aging men. 30% of all hip fractures occur in men, and mortality resulting from not only the hip fracture, but also the spine and other major osteoporotic fractures, is significantly higher in men than in women. As in women, hypogonadism is the best documented risk factor for developing osteoporosis in men. In older men, testosterone levels are negatively correlated with the risk of fractures, and it seems that this age-related testosterone deficiency should not be considered as one of the many causes of secondary osteoporosis, rather one of the major and most important mechanisms of senile osteoporosis. Acute hypogonadism induced by ablation treatment for prostate cancer (surgical or pharmacological castration, antiandrogen therapy) is associated with an extremely high risk of fracture. Other documented causes of bone loss in men are cigarette smoking and alcohol abuse, and a number of diseases that require corticosteroid treatment. Pharmacotherapy of osteoporosis should be recommended to all men with a diagnosed osteoporotic fracture and all men with a high 10-year absolute fracture risk (FRAX^TM). Not all drugs registered for the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis have been registered for the treatment of osteoporosis in men, and others have not been the subject of long-term and costly clinical trials required for such registration. The risk reduction of new fractures was documented only for treatment with zoledronic acid. Risedronate, strontium ranelate, teriparatide, and denosumab in men increase in bone mineral density comparable to that seen in postmenopausal women.

Effects of water-based exercise on bone health of middle-aged and older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Age-related bone loss is a major health concern. Only exercises associated with high-impact and mechanical loading have been linked to a positive effect on bone turnover; however, these types of exercises may not always be appropriate for middle-aged and older adults due to physical decline or chronic disorders such as osteoarthritis. Water-based exercise (WBE) has been shown to affect different components of physical fitness, has lower risks of traumatic fracture, and applies less stress to joints. However, the effects of WBE on bone health are unclear.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to explore whether WBE is effective in preventing age-related bone deterioration in middle-aged and older adults.

METHODS

A search of relevant databases and the references of identified studies was performed. Critical narrative synthesis and meta-analyses were conducted.

RESULTS

Eleven studies, involving 629 participants, met all inclusion criteria. All participants were postmenopausal women. Eight studies compared WBE to a sedentary control group, and four studies had land-based exercise (LBE) participants as a comparison group. Meta-analyses revealed significant differences between WBE and control group in favor of WBE for changes in bone mineral density (BMD) at the lumbar spine (mean difference [MD] 0.03 g/cm²; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.01 to 0.05) and femoral neck (MD 0.04 g/cm²; 95% CI: 0.02 to 0.07). Significant differences were also revealed between WBE and LBE in favor of LBE for changes in lumbar spine BMD (MD -0.04 g/cm²; 95% CI: -0.06 to -0.02). However, there was no significant difference between WBE and LBE for changes in femoral neck BMD (MD -0.03 g/cm²; 95% CI: -0.08 to 0.01).

CONCLUSION

WBE may have benefits with respect to maintaining or improving bone health in postmenopausal women but less benefit when compared to LBE. Further research is required on this topic.

Epidemiology of distal radius fractures and factors predicting risk and prognosis

STUDY DESIGN

Literature Review.

INTRODUCTION

For optimal Distal Radius Fracture (DRF) rehabilitation and fracture prevention, it is important to understand the epidemiology and factors predictive of injury, chronic pain, chronic disability, and subsequent fracture.

PURPOSE

To summarize the literature reporting on DRF epidemiology, risk factors, and prognostic factors.

METHODS

Literature synthesis.

RESULTS

Although incidence varies globally, DRFs are common across the lifespan and appear to be on the rise. Risk of DRF is determined by personal factors (age, sex/gender, lifestyle, health condition) and environmental factors (population density, climate). For example, age and sex influence risk such that DRF is most common in boys/young men and older women. The most common causes of DRF in the pediatric and young adult age groups include playing/sporting activities and motor vehicle accidents. In contrast, the most common mechanism of injury in older adults is a low-energy trauma because of a fall from a standing height. Poorer health outcomes are associated with older age, being female, poor bone healing (or having an associated fracture of the ulnar styloid), having a compensated injury, and a lower socioeconomic status.

CONCLUSIONS

Risk stratification according to predictors of chronic pain and disability enable therapists to identify those patients who will benefit from advocacy for more comprehensive assessment, targeted interventions, and tailored educational strategies. The unique opportunity for secondary prevention of osteoporotic fracture after DRF has yet to be realized by treating therapists in the orthopedic community.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

V.

Imminent risk of fracture after fracture

The risk of major osteoporotic fracture (MOF) after a first MOF is increased over the whole duration of follow-up, but the imminent risk is even higher. If the acute increment in risk in the few years following MOF is amenable to therapeutic intervention, then immediate short-term treatments may provide worthwhile clinical dividends in a very cost-effective manner.

INTRODUCTION

A history of fracture is a strong risk factor for future fractures. The aim of the present study was to determine whether the predictive value of a past MOF for future MOF changed with time.

METHODS

The study was based on a population-based cohort of 18,872 men and women born between 1907 and 1935. Fractures were documented over 510,265 person-years. An extension of Poisson regression was used to investigate the relationship between the first MOF and the second. All associations were adjusted for age and time since baseline.

RESULTS

Five thousand thirty-nine individuals sustained one or more MOFs, of whom 1919 experienced a second MOF. The risk of a second MOF after a first increased by 4% for each year of age (95% CI 1.02-1.06) and was 41% higher for women than men (95% CI 1.25-1.59). The risk of a second MOF was highest immediately after the first fracture and thereafter decreased with time though remained higher than the population risk throughout follow-up. For example, 1 year after the first MOF, the risk of a second fracture was 2.7 (2.4-3.0) fold higher than the population risk. After 10 years, this risk ratio was 1.4 (1.2-1.6). The effect was more marked with increasing age.

CONCLUSIONS

The risk of MOF after a first MOF is increased over the whole follow-up, but the imminent risk is even higher. If the acute increment in risk in the few years following MOF is amenable to therapeutic intervention, then immediate short-term treatments may provide worthwhile clinical dividends in a very cost-effective manner, particularly in the elderly.

Risk of hip fracture following a wrist fracture-A meta-analysis

AIMS

This purpose of this meta analysis was to investigate and quantify the relative risk of hip fracture in patients who have sustained a wrist fracture.

METHOD

Studies were identified by searching Medline, Embase, Cochrane CENTRAL database and CINAHL from their inception to August 2015. Studies reporting confirmed hip fracture following wrist fracture were included. Data extraction was carried out using a modified Cochrane data collection form by two reviewers independently. Quality assessment was carried out using a modified Coleman score and the Newcastle Ottawa scale for cohort studies. An assessment of bias was performed for each study using a modified Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. A pooled relative risk(RR) was estimated with 95% CI from the RR/HRs and CIs reported in the studies.

RESULTS

12 studies were included in the final meta-analysis (4 male, 8 female only). Relative risk of hip fracture following wrist fracture for women was 1.43 (CI 1.27 to 1.60). In men it was not significantly increased (RR 2.11, 95% CI: 0.93-4.85). Heterogeneity was low (I squared 0%) for both groups so a fixed effects model was used.

CONCLUSION

Risk of a subsequent hip fracture is increased for women who suffer a wrist fracture (RR 1.43). Resources and preventative measures should be targeted towards these high risk patients to prevent the catastrophic event of a hip fracture. This meta analysis confirms and quantifies the increased relative risk of hip fracture after wrist fracture in women.

Hip fracture, mortality risk, and cause of death over two decades

Men and women with hip fracture have higher short-term mortality. This study investigated mortality risk over two decades post-fracture; excess mortality remained high in women up to 10 years and in men up to 20 years. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and pneumonia were leading causes of death with a long-term doubling of risk.

INTRODUCTION

Hip fractures are associated with increased mortality, particularly short term. In this study with a two-decade follow-up, we examined mortality and cause of death compared to the background population.

METHODS

We followed 1013 hip fracture patients and 2026 matched community controls for 22 years. Mortality, excess mortality, and cause of death were analyzed and stratified for age and sex. Hazard ratio (HR) was estimated by Cox regression. A competing risk model was fitted to estimate HR for common causes of death (CVD, cancer, pneumonia) in the short and long term (>1 year).

RESULTS

For both sexes and at all ages, mortality was higher in hip fracture patients across the observation period with men losing most life years (p < 0.001). Mortality risk was higher for up to 15 years (women (risk ratio (RR) 1.9 [95 % confidence interval (CI) 1.7-2.1]); men (RR 2.8 [2.2-3.5])) and until end of follow-up ((RR 1.8 [1.6-2.0]); (RR 2.7 [2.1-3.3])). Excess mortality by time intervals, censored for the first year, was evident in women (<80 years, up to 10 years; >80 years, for 5 years) and in men <80 years throughout. CVD and pneumonia were predominant causes of death in men and women with an associated higher risk in all age groups. Pneumonia caused excess mortality in men over the entire observation period.

CONCLUSION

In a remaining lifetime perspective, all-cause and excess mortality after hip fracture was higher even over two decades of follow-up. CVD and pneumonia reduce life expectancy for the remaining lifetime and highlights the need to further improve post-fracture management.

High Prevalence of Osteoporosis in Men with Distal Radius Fracture: A Cross-Sectional Study of 233 Men

Distal radius fracture is an early indicator of osteoporosis, yet little is known about men with this fracture and osteoporosis prevalence. The purpose of this cross-sectional, controlled study was to evaluate bone mineral density (BMD) in men, from working age to the elderly, with distal radius fracture. Recruitment was as follows: men who fractured during 1999-2000 were evaluated retrospectively in 2003 and men who fractured during 2003-2007 were followed prospectively for one year post-fracture. A total of 233 patients, response rate 40 %, were enrolled and compared with 643 controls. Fractures from all degrees of trauma were included. BMD was measured at femoral neck, total hip, and lumbar spine. Mean age at fracture was 52 years (21-88 years). Men aged 40-64 years had 5.4-6.7 % lower BMD at all sites compared to controls (p = 0.001) and in >65 years BMD was lower by 10.7-13.8 % (p < 0.001), while not significant at <40 years (1.4-2.8 %; p = 0.228-0.487). Osteoporosis was more prevalent at all ages (20-39 years: 8.5 vs 1.5 %; 40-64 years: 16.8 vs 5.1 %; >65 years: 23.3 vs 8.3 %) BMD did not differ with trauma level. Already from age 40, men with a distal radius fracture had lower BMD, the difference becoming more pronounced with increasing age. Also, the prevalence of osteoporosis was higher, surprisingly even in the youngest age group.

Sex steroid actions in male bone

Sex steroids are chief regulators of gender differences in the skeleton, and male gender is one of the strongest protective factors against osteoporotic fractures. This advantage in bone strength relies mainly on greater cortical bone expansion during pubertal peak bone mass acquisition and superior skeletal maintenance during aging. During both these phases, estrogens acting via estrogen receptor-α in osteoblast lineage cells are crucial for male cortical and trabecular bone, as evident from conditional genetic mouse models, epidemiological studies, rare genetic conditions, genome-wide meta-analyses, and recent interventional trials. Genetic mouse models have also demonstrated a direct role for androgens independent of aromatization on trabecular bone via the androgen receptor in osteoblasts and osteocytes, although the target cell for their key effects on periosteal bone formation remains elusive. Low serum estradiol predicts incident fractures, but the highest risk occurs in men with additionally low T and high SHBG. Still, the possible clinical utility of serum sex steroids for fracture prediction is unknown. It is likely that sex steroid actions on male bone metabolism rely also on extraskeletal mechanisms and cross talk with other signaling pathways. We propose that estrogens influence fracture risk in aging men via direct effects on bone, whereas androgens exert an additional antifracture effect mainly via extraskeletal parameters such as muscle mass and propensity to fall. Given the demographic trends of increased longevity and consequent rise of osteoporosis, an increased understanding of how sex steroids influence male bone health remains a high research priority.

Mild morphometric vertebral fractures predict vertebral fractures but not non-vertebral fractures

In this meta-analysis of the control arms of four phase 3 trials, mild vertebral fractures were a significant risk factor for future vertebral fractures but not for non-vertebral fracture.

INTRODUCTION

A prior vertebral fracture is a risk factor for future fracture that is commonly used as an eligibility criterion for treatment and in the assessment of fracture probability. The aim of this study was to determine the prognostic significance of a morphometric fracture according to the severity of fracture.

METHODS

We examined the control (placebo) treated arms of four phase 3 trials. Vertebral fracture status was graded at baseline in 7,623 women, and fracture outcomes were documented over the subsequent 20,000 patient-years. Fracture outcomes were characterised as a further vertebral fracture, a non-vertebral fracture or a clinical fracture (non-vertebral plus clinical vertebral fracture). The relative risk of fracture was computed from the merged β coefficients of each trial weighted according to the variance.

RESULTS

Mild vertebral fractures were a significant risk factor for vertebral fractures [risk ratio (RR) = 2.17; 95% CI = 1.70-2.76] but were not associated with an increased risk of non-vertebral fractures (RR = 1.08; 95% CI = 0.86-1.36). Moderate/severe vertebral fractures were associated with a high risk of vertebral fractures (RR = 4.23; 95% CI = 3.58-5.00) and a moderate though significant increase in non-vertebral fracture risk (RR = 1.64; 95% CI = 1.38-1.94).

CONCLUSIONS

Prior moderate/severe morphometric vertebral fractures are a strong and significant risk factor for future fracture. The presence of a mild vertebral fracture is of no significant prognostic value for non-vertebral fractures. These findings should temper the use of morphometric fractures in the assessment of risk and the design of phase 3 studies.

Survival times of patients with a first hip fracture with and without subsequent major long-bone fractures

OBJECTIVES

Survival rates are poorer after a second hip fracture than after a first hip fracture. Previous survival studies have included in-hospital mortality. Excluding in-hospital deaths from the analysis allows survival times to be evaluated in community-based patients. There is still a lack of data regarding the effects of subsequent fractures on survival times after hospital discharge following an initial hip fracture. This study compared the survival times of community-dwelling patients with hip fracture who had or did not have a subsequent major long-bone fracture. Hazard ratios and risk factors for subsequent fractures and mortality rates with and without subsequent fractures were calculated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Of 844 patients with hip fracture from 2000 through 2008, 71 had a subsequent major long-bone fracture and 773 did not. Patients who died of other causes, such as perioperative complications, during hospitalization were excluded. Such exclusion allowed us to determine the effect of subsequent fracture on the survival of community-dwelling individuals after hospital discharge or after the time of the fracture if they did not need hospitalization. Demographic data, causes of death, and mortality rates were recorded. Differences in mortality rates between the patient groups and hazard ratios were calculated.

RESULTS

Mortality rates during the first year and from 1 to 5 years after the most recent fracture were 5.6% and 1.4%, respectively, in patients with subsequent fractures, and 4.7% and 1.4%, respectively, in patients without subsequent fractures. These rates did not differ significantly between the groups. Cox regression analysis and calculation of hazard ratios did not show significant differences between patients with subsequent fractures and those without. On univariate and multivariate analyses, age <75 years and male sex were risk factors for subsequent fracture.

CONCLUSIONS

This study found that survival times did not differ significantly between patients with and without subsequent major long-bone fractures after hip fracture. Therefore, all patients with hip fracture, with or without subsequent fractures, need the same robust holistic care. The risks of subsequent fractures should be addressed in patients with hip fracture and should be reduced where possible by education regarding fracture prevention and regular rehabilitation programs. Efforts should be made to decrease the rates of major long-bone fractures and their burdens, even though such fractures have only a minor effect on survival in community-dwelling individuals.

Epidemiological survey of quantitative ultrasound in risk assessment of falls in middle-aged and elderly people

The risk assessment of falls is important, but still unsatisfactory and time-consuming. Our objective was to assess quantitative ultrasound (QUS) in the risk assessment of falls. Our study was designed as epidemiological cross-sectional study occurring from March 2009 to February 2010 by community survey at a medical center. The participants were collected from systemic sample of 1,200 community-dwelling people (Male/Female = 524/676) 40 years old and over in Yunlin County, Mid-Taiwan. Structural questionnaires including socioeconomic status, living status, smoking and drinking habits, exercise and medical history were completed. Quantitative ultrasound (QUS) at the non-dominant distal radial area (QUS-R) and the left calcaneal area (QUS-C) were measured. The overall prevalence of falls was 19.8%. In men, the independently associated factors for falls were age (OR: 1.04; 95%CI: 1.01~1.06), fracture history (OR: 1.89; 95%CI: 1.12~3.19), osteoarthritis history (OR: 3.66; 95%CI: 1.15~11.64) and speed of sound (OR: 0.99; 95%CI: 0.99~1.00; p<0.05) by QUS-R. In women, the independently associated factors for falls were current drinking (OR: 3.54; 95%CI: 1.35∼9.31) and broadband ultrasound attenuation (OR: 0.98; 95%CI: 0.97~0.99; p<0.01) by QUS-C. The cutoffs at -2.5< T-score<-1 derived using QUS-R (OR: 2.85; 95%CI: 1.64~4.96; p<0.01) in men or T-score ≦-2.5 derived using QUS-C (OR: 2.72; 95%CI: 1.42~5.21; p<0.01) in women showed an independent association with falls. The lowest T-score derived using either QUS-R or QUS-C was also revealed as an independent factor for falls in both men (OR: 2.13; 95%CI: 1.03~4.43; p<0.05) and women (OR: 2.36; 95%CI: 1.13~4.91; p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Quantitative ultrasounds, measured either at the radial or calcaneal area, are convenient tools by which to assess the risk of falls in middle-aged and elderly people.

A distal forearm fracture in childhood is associated with an increased risk for future fragility fractures in adult men, but not women

Distal forearm fractures are among the most common fractures during childhood, but it remains unclear whether they predict an increased fracture risk later in life. We studied a population-based cohort of 1776 children ≤18 years of age, from Olmsted County, MN, USA, who had a distal forearm fracture in 1935-1992. Incident fractures occurring at age ≥35 years were identified through review of complete medical records using the linkage system of the Rochester Epidemiology Project. Observed nonpathologic fractures resulting from no more than moderate trauma (fragility fractures) were compared with expected numbers estimated from fracture site-specific incidence rates, based on age, sex, and calendar year, for Olmsted County (standardized incidence ratios [SIR]). In 1086 boys (mean ± SD age; 11 ± 4 years) and 690 girls (10 ± 4 years) followed for 27,292 person-years after the age of 35 years, subsequent fragility fractures were observed in 144 (13%) men and 74 (11%) women. There was an increased risk for future fragility fractures in boys who had a distal forearm fracture (SIR, 1.9; 95% CI, 1.6-2.3) but not girls (SIR, 1.0; 95% CI, 0.8-1.2). Fragility fractures at both major osteoporotic (hip, spine, wrist, and shoulder) sites (SIR, 2.6; 95% CI, 2.1-3.3) and remaining sites (SIR, 1.7; 95% CI, 1.3-2.0) were increased in men, irrespective of age at distal forearm fracture as boys. A distal forearm fracture in boys, but not girls, is associated with an increased risk for fragility fractures as older adults. It is necessary to determine whether the increased fractures observed in men is due to persistent deficits of bone strength, continued high fracture risk activity, or both. Until then, men should be asked about a childhood distal forearm fracture and, if so, warrant further screening and counseling on measures to optimize bone health and prevent fractures.

Osteoporosis in older men: recent advances in pathophysiology and treatment

Osteoporosis remains underrecognized and undertreated but more so in men, adding considerably to fracture burden and costs. Fracture-related morbidity and mortality is higher in men, partly due to greater frailty. Improved peak bone mass, geometry and turn-over contribute to lower fracture incidence in men. Bioavailable androgens and oestrogens regulate these aspects of musculoskeletal sexual dimorphism, yet the direct cellular and molecular targets of sex steroids in bone remain incompletely understood. Screening with clinical risk factors and dual energy X-ray absorptiometry are advised in men from age 70 (or 50 with additional risk factors). We now have compelling evidence that osteoporosis drugs are equally effective in men and women, not only to increase bone density but also to prevent osteoporotic fractures. The use of testosterone or selective androgen receptor modulators for osteoporosis, sarcopenia, frailty and falls in men with late-onset hypogonadism requires further investigation.

Is there a specific fracture 'cascade'?

Different kinds of epidemiologic data provide varying views of the relationships among the main osteoporotic fractures. Descriptive incidence data indicate that distal forearm fractures typically occur earlier than vertebral fractures that, in turn, precede hip fractures late in life. In addition, relative risk estimates document the fact that one osteoporotic fracture increases the risk of subsequent ones. These two observations support the notion of a 'fracture cascade' and justify the recent emphasis on secondary prevention, that is, more aggressive treatment of patients presenting with a fracture in order to prevent recurrences. However, the absolute risk of a subsequent fracture given an initial one is modest, and the degree to which the second fracture can be attributed to the first one is unclear. Moreover, the osteoporotic fractures encountered in the majority of patients are the first one experienced, and even these initial fractures lead to substantial morbidity and cost. These latter points reemphasize the importance of primary prevention, that is, the management of bone loss and other risk factors to prevent the first fracture. Continued efforts are needed to refine risk assessment algorithms so that candidates for such fracture prophylaxis can be identified more accurately and efficiently.

Lower fracture risk in older men with higher sclerostin concentration: a prospective analysis from the MINOS study

Sclerostin is synthesized by osteocytes and inhibits bone formation. We measured serum sclerostin levels in 710 men aged 50 years and older. Bone mineral density (BMD) was measured at the lumbar spine, hip, and distal forearm. Serum sclerostin increased with age (unadjusted r = 0.30, p < 0.001). After adjustment for age, weight, and bioavailable 17β-estradiol, serum sclerostin correlated positively with BMD (r = 0.24 to 0.35, p < 0.001) and negatively with the levels of bone turnover markers (r = - 0.09 to - 0.23, p < 0.05 to 0.001). During a 10-year follow-up, 75 men sustained fragility fractures. Fracture risk was lower in the two upper quintiles of sclerostin combined versus three lower quintiles combined (6.1 versus 13.5%, p < 0.01). We compared fracture risk in the two highest quintiles combined versus three lower quintiles combined using the Cox model adjusted for age, weight, leisure physical activity, BMD, bone width (tubular bones), prevalent fracture, prevalent falls, ischemic heart disease, and severe abdominal aortic calcification. Men with higher sclerostin concentration had lower fracture risk (adjusted for hip BMD, hazard ratio [HR] = 0.55, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.31 to 0.96, p < 0.05). The results were similar in 47 men with major fragility fractures (adjusted for lumbar spine BMD: HR = 0.39, 95% CI 0.17 to 0.90, p < 0.05). Men who had higher sclerostin and higher BMD (two highest quintiles) had lower risk of fracture compared with men who had lower BMD and lower sclerostin levels (three lower quintiles) (HR = 0.24, 95% CI 0.10 to 0.62, p < 0.005). Circulating sclerostin was not associated with mortality rate or the incidence of major cardiovascular events. Thus, in older men, higher serum sclerostin levels are associated with lower risk of fracture, higher BMD, and lower bone turnover rate.

Incidence of subsequent hip fractures is significantly increased within the first month after distal radius fracture in patients older than 60 years

BACKGROUND

Distal radius fracture is recognized as an osteoporosis-related fracture in aged population. If another osteoporosis-related fracture occurs in a short period, it represents a prolonged hospitalization and a considerable economic burden to the society.We evaluated the relationship between distal radius fracture and subsequent hip fracture within 1 year, especially in the critical time and age.

METHODS

We identified newly diagnosed distal radius fracture patients in 2000 to 2006 as an exposed cohort (N = 9,986). A comparison cohort (N = 81,227) was randomly selected from patients without distal radius fracture in the same year of exposed cohort. The subjects were followed up for 1 year since the recruited date.We compared the sociodemographic factors between two cohorts.Furthermore, the time interval following the previous distal radial fracture and the incidence of subsequent hip fracture was studied in detail.

RESULTS

The incidence of hip fracture within 1 year increased with age in both cohorts. The risk was 5.67 times (84.6 vs. 14.9 per 10,000 person-years) greater in the distal radial fracture cohort than in the comparison cohort. The multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression analyses showed the hazard ratios of hip fracture in relation to distal radial fracture was 3.45 (95% confidence interval = 2.59-4.61). The highest incidence was within the first month after distal radial fracture, 17-fold higher than the comparison cohort (17.9 vs. 1.05 per 10,000). Among comorbidities, age 9 60 years was also a significant factor associated with hip fracture (hazard ratio = 8.67, 95% confidence interval = 4.51-16.7).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with distal radius fracture and age 960 years will significantly increase the incidence of subsequent hip fracture, especially within the first month.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic/epidemiologic study, level II.

Cortical and trabecular bone structure analysis at the distal radius-prediction of biomechanical strength by DXA and MRI

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the combination of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA)-based bone mass and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based cortical and trabecular structural measures improves the prediction of radial bone strength. Thirty-eight left forearms were harvested from formalin-fixed human cadavers. Bone mineral content (BMC) and bone mineral density (BMD) of the distal radius were measured using DXA. Cortical and trabecular structural measures of the distal radius were computed in high-resolution 1.5T MR images. Cortical measures included average cortical thickness and cross-sectional area. Trabecular measures included morphometric and texture parameters. The forearms were biomechanically tested in a fall simulation to measure absolute radial bone strength (failure load). Relative radial bone strength was determined by dividing radial failure loads by age, body mass index, radius length, and average radius cross-sectional area, respectively. DXA derived BMC and BMD showed statistically significant (p < 0.05) correlations with absolute and relative radial bone strength (r ≤ 0.78). Correlation coefficients for cortical and trabecular structural measures with absolute and relative radial bone strength amounted up to r = 0.59 and r = 0.74, respectively, (p < 0.05). In combination with DXA-based bone mass, trabecular but not, cortical structural measures, added in multiple regression models significant (p < 0.05) information in predicting absolute and relative radial bone strength (up to R adj = 0.88). Thus, a combination of DXA-based bone mass and MRI-based trabecular structural measures most accurately predicted absolute and relative radial bone strength, whereas structural measures of the cortex did not provide significant additional information in combination with DXA.

Digital X-ray radiogrammetry of hand or wrist radiographs can predict hip fracture risk--a study in 5,420 women and 2,837 men

OBJECTIVES

To assess whether digital X-ray radiogrammetry (DXR) analysis of standard clinical hand or wrist radiographs obtained at emergency hospitals can predict hip fracture risk.

METHODS

A total of 45,538 radiographs depicting the left hand were gathered from three emergency hospitals in Stockholm, Sweden. Radiographs with insufficiently included metacarpal bone, fractures in measurement regions, foreign material or unacceptable positioning were manually excluded. A total of 18,824 radiographs from 15,072 patients were analysed with DXR, yielding a calculated BMD equivalent (DXR-BMD). Patients were matched with the national death and inpatient registers. Inclusion criteria were age ≥ 40 years, no prior hip fracture and observation time > 7 days. Hip fractures were identified via ICD-10 codes. Age-adjusted hazard ratio per standard deviation (HR/SD) was calculated using Cox regression.

RESULTS

8,257 patients (65.6 % female, 34.4 % male) met the inclusion criteria. One hundred twenty-two patients suffered a hip fracture after their radiograph. The fracture group had a significantly lower DXR-BMD than the non-fracture group when adjusted for age. The HR/SD for hip fracture was 2.52 and 2.08 in women and men respectively. The area under the curve was 0.89 in women and 0.84 in men.

CONCLUSIONS

DXR analysis of wrist and hand radiographs obtained at emergency hospitals predicts hip fracture risk in women and men.

KEY POINTS

• Digital X-ray radiogrammetry of emergency hand/wrist radiographs predicts hip fracture risk. • Digital X-ray radiogrammetry (DXR) predicts hip fracture risk in both women and men. • Osteoporosis can potentially be identified in patients with suspected wrist fractures. • DXR can potentially be used for selective osteoporosis screening.

Regional differences in treatment for osteoporosis. The Global Longitudinal Study of Osteoporosis in Women (GLOW)

PURPOSE

To determine if important geographic differences exist in treatment rates for osteoporosis and whether this variation can be explained by regional variation in risk factors.

METHODS

The Global Longitudinal Study of Osteoporosis in Women is an observational study of women ≥55 years sampled from primary care practices in 10 countries. Self-administered questionnaires were used to collect data on patient characteristics, risk factors for fracture, previous fractures, anti-osteoporosis medication, and health status.

RESULTS

Among 58,009 women, current anti-osteoporosis medication use was lowest in Northern Europe (16%) and highest in U.S.A. and Australia (32%). Between 48% (U.S.A., Southern Europe) and 68% (Northern Europe) of women aged ≥65 years with a history of spine or hip fracture since age 45 were untreated. Among women with osteoporosis, the percentage of treated cases was lowest in Europe (45-52% versus 62-65% elsewhere). Women with osteopenia and no other risk factors were treated with anti-osteoporosis medication most frequently in U.S.A. (31%) and Canada (31%), and least frequently in Southern Europe (12%), Northern Europe (13%), and Australia (16%). After adjusting for risk factors, U.S. women were threefold as likely to be treated with anti-osteoporosis medication as Northern European women (odds ratio 2.8; 95% confidence interval 2.5-3.1) and 1.5 times as likely to be treated as Southern European women (1.5, 1.4-1.6). Up to half of women reporting previous hip or spine fracture did not receive treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The likelihood of being treated for osteoporosis differed between regions, and cannot be explained by variation in risk factors. Many women at risk of fracture do not receive prophylaxis.

Minor, major, low-trauma, and high-trauma fractures: what are the subsequent fracture risks and how do they vary?

Osteoporosis is a leading health problem worldwide due to the morbidity and mortality associated with fractures. However, a large number of fractures occur in persons without osteoporosis, when defined by bone mineral density alone. Numerous studies have shown that the risk of subsequent fracture is increased following fractures at most sites, and the increased risk is not limited to prior hip and vertebral fractures only. In addition, the amount of trauma present at the time of a fracture event appears to have limited impact on future fracture risk. Thus, even fractures that occur in the presence of high trauma should be recognized as evidence of possible bone fragility. Further methods to better identify persons at risk of future fracture are needed, such as through evaluation of other indicators of bone strength or recognition of modifiable, non-bone factors. Any initial fracture event is important for patients and caregivers to recognize as an implication for future fracture risk.

Official Positions for FRAX® clinical regarding prior fractures from Joint Official Positions Development Conference of the International Society for Clinical Densitometry and International Osteoporosis Foundation on FRAX®

The 2010 Position Development Conference addressed four questions related to the impact of previous fractures on 10-year fracture risk as calculated by FRAX(®). To address these questions, PubMed was searched on the keywords "fracture, epidemiology, osteoporosis." Titles of retrieved articles were reviewed for an indication that risk for future fracture was discussed. Abstracts of these articles were reviewed for an indication that one or more of the questions listed above was discussed. For those that did, the articles were reviewed in greater detail to extract the findings and to find additional past work and citing works that also bore on the questions. The official positions and the supporting literature review are presented here. FRAX(®) underestimates fracture probability in persons with a history of multiple fractures (good, A, W). FRAX(®) may underestimate fracture probability in individuals with prevalent severe vertebral fractures (good, A, W). While there is evidence that hip, vertebral, and humeral fractures appear to confer greater risk of subsequent fracture than fractures at other sites, quantification of this incremental risk in FRAX(®) is not possible (fair, B, W). FRAX(®) may underestimate fracture probability in individuals with a parental history of non-hip fragility fracture (fair, B, W). Limitations of the methodology include performance by a single reviewer, preliminary review of the literature being confined to titles, and secondary review being limited to abstracts. Limitations of the evidence base include publication bias, overrepresentation of persons of European descent in the published studies, and technical differences in the methods used to identify prevalent and incident fractures. Emerging topics for future research include fracture epidemiology in non-European populations and men, the impact of fractures in family members other than parents, and the genetic contribution to fracture risk.

Exercise prescription after fragility fracture in older adults: a scoping review

The purpose of this study is to identify and chart research literature on safety, efficacy, or effectiveness of exercise prescription following fracture in older adults. We conducted a systematic, research-user-informed, scoping review. The population of interest was adults aged ≥45 years with any fracture. "Exercise prescription" included post-fracture therapeutic exercise, physical activity, or rehabilitation interventions. Eligible designs included knowledge synthesis studies, primary interventional studies, and observational studies. Trained reviewers independently evaluated citations for inclusion. A total of 9,415 citations were reviewed with 134 citations (119 unique studies) identified: 13 knowledge syntheses, 95 randomized or controlled clinical trials, and 11 "other" designs, representing 74 articles on lower extremity fractures, 34 on upper extremity, eight on vertebral, and three on mixed body region fractures. Exercise prescription characteristics were often missing or poorly described. Six general categories emerged describing exercise prescription characteristics: timing post-fracture, person prescribing, program design, functional focus, exercise script parameters, and co-interventions. Upper extremity and ankle fracture studies focused on fracture healing or structural impairment outcomes, whereas hip fracture studies focused more on activity limitation outcomes. The variety of different outcome measures used made pooling or comparison of outcomes difficult. There was insufficient information to identify evidence-informed parameters for safe and effective exercise prescription for older adults following fracture. Key gaps in the literature include limited numbers of studies on exercise prescription following vertebral fracture, poor delineation of effectiveness of different strategies for early post-fracture mobilization following upper extremity fracture, and inconsistent details of exercise prescription characteristics after lower extremity fracture.