Spinal compression fractures due to pregnancy-associated osteoporosis

Abstract

Objectives: To report on unique cases of spinal compression fractures due to pregnancy associated osteoporosis (PAO) and to suggest a satisfactory treatment modality. Materials and Methods: A single center retrospective study. We reviewed the data of 535 patients with osteoporotic spinal compression fractures over a period of 5 year. Two patients who developed spinal compression fractures due to PAO were identified and treated. Results: The clinical presentation and blood investigations ruled out other causes of osteoporosis. Dual energy X ray absorptiometry was used to confirm the diagnosis. All patients improved with medical management. Conclusion: Vertebral fractures due to PAO should be considered as a differential diagnosis in patients with back pain who are in the third trimester of pregnancy or in postpartum. Early recognition and appropriate conservative management would be necessary to prevent complications such as new vertebral fractures and chronic back pain.

Keywords

• Bone mineral density; chronic back pain; dual energy X ray absorptiometry; pregnancy associated osteoporosis; spinal compression fractures.