Histology of 8 atypical femoral fractures: remodeling but no healing.

ABSTRACT:

Background and purpose

The pathophysiology behind bisphosphonate-associated atypical femoral fractures remains unclear. Histological findings at the fracture site itself may provide clues.

Patients and methods

Between 2008 and 2013, we collected bone biopsies including the fracture line from 4 complete and 4 incomplete atypical femoral fractures. 7 female patients reported continuous bisphosphonate use for 10 years on average. 1 patient was a man who was not using bisphosphonates. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry of the hip and spine showed no osteoporosis in 6 cases. The bone biopsies were evaluated by micro-computed tomography, infrared spectroscopy, and qualitative histology.

Results

Incomplete fractures involved the whole cortical thickness and showed a continuous

SUBMITTER: Schilcher J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4062796 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature