Secondary fracture prevention in spine surgery

A fragility fracture is associated with high likelihood of further fracture and the risk is reduced by quality improvement programs to provide osteoporotic care and rehabilitation. Unfortunately, these treatments are offered to less than 20% of patients who have fragility fractures. Multiple types of secondary fracture prevention programs are available and all have been shown to increase diagnostic testing and pharmacologic treatments in a cost-effective manner. The American Orthopaedic Association's “Own the Bone” is one such comprehensive quality improvement program that provides leadership and offers patients access to preventive care. Spine surgeons should take the lead to make sure that patients with fragility spinal fractures receive secondary fracture prevention.