Nikolaos Papadakos, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Brendan Rory Barber MBChB, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Ioannis Vlahos MBBS, Abstract Co-Author: Researcher, Siemens AG Consultant, Siemens AG Consultant, General Electric Company Consultant, Medicsight, Inc

Vivian Ejindu MRCP, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Osteoporotic (OP) vertebral fractures are frequently under diagnosed radiologically with implications for long term management and associated morbidity. We aim to: • Review the morphology of OP vertebral fractures • Highlight common reason for underreporting • Discuss commonly used classifications  

Importance of diagnosis: • To assist the clinician (e.g. to refer for DEXA scan, implement long term treatment to reduce subsequent OP fractures) • Economic burden of OP fractures • Potential medico legal issues Reporting: • Commonly used incorrect terms (e.g. collapse, loss of height, wedging) • Common causes of misinterpretation (e.g. parallax effect, scoliosis) • Correct descriptive terms and classifications (e.g. biconcave, wedge or crush fracture)  

Accurate reporting of OP vertebral fractures is important in the initial diagnosis of osteoporosis, its treatment and reduction of associated long term morbidity. • Radiologists play a significant role in the diagnosis of OP vertebral fractures • Reports must include the word “fracture”, rather than “wedging” or “collapse” • Methods described can help with reporting confidence  

Papadakos, N, Barber, B, Vlahos, I, Ejindu, V, Detection, Recognition, and Characterization of Osteoporotic Vertebral Fractures: What the Radiologist Needs to Know.  Radiological Society of North America 2011 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 26 - December 2, 2011 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2011/11012990.html