Management Concepts of Bisphosphonate-Related Atypical Femoral Fractures.

Background/

Objectives

Osteoporosis is an important health issue worldwide, and bisphosphonates are commonly prescribed for its treatment. However, certain complications can occur with long-term bisphosphonate therapy. The complication highlighted in this study was atypical femoral fractures, which are rare but significant. The orthopedic consensus identifies surgical intervention as the gold-standard treatment for atypical femoral fractures, typically involving intramedullary or cephalomedullary nailing (CMN). The aim was to monitor patients for a follow-up period exceeding six months after surgical fixation with a CMN, with the majority of patients being followed up for more than 18 months after their initial surgery.

Methods

This single-center analysis was conducted on a mixed cohort comprising a total of 10 patients. The study was conducted between September and November 2024. The inclusion criterion was surgical treatment for bisphosphonate-related atypical femoral fractures (AFFs) between June 2022 and November 2024 at a Level 1 Trauma Center, Cork University Hospital in the Republic of Ireland. The patients were monitored through a structured follow-up protocol that extended beyond six months, with the majority of patients being followed up for over 18 months. Follow-up assessments were conducted at defined intervals, including key evaluations at 3 and 6 months and at their final review. Clinical parameters such as pain, functional recovery, and radiological healing were considered.

Results

No significant functional difference was observed at follow-up between the patients who sustained displaced fractures and those who presented with undisplaced fractures. Sixty percent of the patients remained pain-free from the 3-month postoperative follow-up, and the same percentage continued to be pain-free at the final follow-up.

Conclusions

Cephalomedullary nailing is a safe option for the treatment of atypical femoral fractures. Patients with a bisphosphonate atypical femoral fracture should undergo bilateral screening and should be followed up for a longer period than the standard post-traumatic care intervals that are in place for typical femoral fractures.