Burden of bisphosphonate-associated femoral fractures

Abstract

Background: Bisphosphonates decrease the risk of typical low trauma fractures, and are commonly prescribed for this indication. The link between atypical fractures and bisphosphonate use is well established; however, who is susceptible to atypical fracture remains unclear. A number of large population-based studies have disregarded the atypical fracture risk as they have found the absolute risk to be low. Methods: This is a retrospective review of the radiographs and charts of all patients who presented with subtrochanteric and diaphyseal femoral fractures over a 5-year period. Patients were interviewed to determine functionality post-fracture. Results: Atypical fractures represented 30.3% o..