| [ Summary ] |
Among osteoporotic fractures, hip fractures and vertebral fractures with neurologic deficits should be treated surgically. Surgical treatment of hip fractures reduces lifetime societal costs better as compared to conservative treatment. Proper implant selection for the treatment of hip fractures should include evaluation of the fracture pattern. With rare exception, displaced femoral neck fractures require hemiarthroplasty. Intertrochanteric fractures can be treated with an intramedullary nail or a sliding hip screw device. Vertebral augmentation with vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty may be a treatment option for vertebral collapse. However, spinal reconstruction with posterior instrumentation and anterior column support is often indicated for patients with severe spinal kyphosis. Decisions on surgical treatment for non-vertebral non-hip fractures include wrist and proximal humerus fractures should take into account the patient's background, including age, activity levels and comorbidity. Recently developed advanced techniques involving locking plates can provide strong fixation for these fractures. Since there is less tolerance for surgery in elderly patients, minimizing peri- and post-operative complications is essential. |