Evaluation of vertebral hidden fractures in patients with proximal femoral fractures

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the Spine Deformity Index (SDI) and serum levels of vitamin D in patients surgically treated for proximal femur fracture and its relationship with osteoporosis. Methods: Between August and November 2013, patients older than 50 years-old with surgical fracture of the proximal femur by low-energy trauma underwent radiographic evaluation of the spine and the vitamin D levels, and enquired about diagnoses and previous treatment of osteoporosis. Results: Sixty-six patients met the inclusion criteria. The mean age was 78 years; the average level of vitamin D was 19 ng/mL. The SDI ranged between zero and 25, with a mean of 8.2. Eighty percent of these patients had never been treated for osteoporosis. Of the patients analyzed, 89.3% had insufficient levels of vitamin D. Of these, 68.1% had also SDI above 5, and only one fifth of them had any treatment for osteoporosis. Statistical significance was found between age and levels of vitamin D as well as age and SDI. Gender was not predictive of the vitamin D levels or the amount of hidden spine fractures. The season of the year had no direct influence on vitamin D levels. Conclusions: Hospitalized patients with surgical fractures of the proximal femur had a higher SDI associated with vitamin D insufficiency, with osteoporosis most often untreated, which results in delayed spinal fractures diagnosis of spinal fractures and increased risk of new fractures.