Osteoporosis and vertebral compression fractures

Question 1

Osteoporosis

Answer 1

A chronic progressive metabolic bone disease characterized by low bone mass and structural deterioration of bone tissue, leading to increased bone fragility

Question 2

Risk Factors for Osteoporosis

Answer 2

1. Female
2. Thin, small frame
3. Family history
4. Diet low in calcium
5. Caucasian or asian-american
6. Excessive alcohol intake
7. Excessive caffeine intake
8. Cigarette smoking
9. Meds
10. Post Menopausal
11. Hx anorexia, bulima, chronic liver disease, malabsorption

Question 3

Why is osteoporosis more commen in women than men?

Answer 3

1. Women have lower calcium intake
2. Women have less peak bone mass because of smaller frame
3. Resorption begins at an earlier age and is accelerated by menopause
4. Pregnancy and breast feeding deplete skeletal reserve unless ca intake is adequate
5. Longevity increases likelihood of osteoporosis (women live longer)

Question 4

Advantages of hormone replacement therapy

Answer 4

• HRT decreases bone demineralization
• Most effecive when combined with ca
• most effective in the first 10 years after menopause
• Most authorities recommend HRT because hip fracture and its sequelae are serious complications in older population, and advantages far outweigh the risks
• decision is usually left up to the client

Question 5

Disadvantages of hormone replacement therapy

Answer 5

• Suspected to increase the risk for endometrial cancer and some types of breast cancer; has side effects
• may increase the risk of thromboembolic disorders
• may increase hyperlipidemia
• side effects which include bloating, breast tenderness, cramping, irritability, depression and sometimes spotting or a return of monthly periods

Question 6

Vertebral Compression Fracture

Answer 6

• Associated with severe osteoporosis
• Cause debilitating acute and chronic back pain
• Kyphoplasty is the surgery

Question 7

Kyphoplasty

Answer 7

1. Type of minimally invasive back surgery used in cases of vertebral fracture
2. Purpose is to stop the pain associated with the fracture and stabilize the vertebrae and restore vertebral body height
3. Successful with patients who suffer VF due to diminished bone strength (osteoporosis, age related bone loss)
4. younger people with conditions affecting bone strength may benefit from this surgery

Question 8

Pre and post menopausal with HRT Ca Recommendations

Answer 8

1000 mg/day

Question 9

Postmenopausal without HRT Ca Recommendations

Answer 9

1500 mg/day