An evaluation of Fracture Liaison Services in the detection and management of osteoporotic fragility fractures: A narrative review. Issue 4 (November 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Eccles, E.; Thompson, J.D.; Roddam, H.
• Is Part Of: Radiography. Volume 24:Issue 4(2018)
• Page Start: 392
• Page End: 395
• Publication Date: 2018-11
• Subjects: Osteoporosis -- Fracture Liaison Service -- Fragility fracture -- Vertebral fracture; Diagnostic imaging -- Periodicals; Radiotherapy -- Periodicals; Cancer -- Radiotherapy -- Periodicals; Diagnostic Imaging -- Periodicals; Neoplasms -- Periodicals; Radiotherapy -- Periodicals; Imagerie pour le diagnostic -- Périodiques; Radiothérapie -- Périodiques; Cancer -- Radiothérapie -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; 616.0757
• DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2018.05.003
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1078-8174

Abstract

Abstract: Objectives: To evaluate the current evidence for whether Fracture Liaison Services are being utilised effectively in the UK to aid in the prevention of fragility fractures. Key findings: Radiological under-reporting and non-standardised assessment of fragility fractures still persist, with low numbers of patients undergoing a risk assessment and treatment for secondary prevention of fracture. In order to improve care for these patients, the reporting of vertebral fractures must be improved and standardised in order to identify patients at increased risk of secondary fragility fractures. Fracture Liaison Services determine the need for anti-resorptive therapy for the prevention of future fragility fractures. Targeted treatment of at-risk patient groups has been shown to reduce the risk of further fracture. Conclusion: Fracture Liaison Services have been shown to be cost effective, while reducing the risk of secondary fractures, but they are not currently offered by all NHS providers. Highlights: Fracture Liaison Service (FLS) is proven to be a good model for the prevention of secondary fractures. The asymptomatic nature of vertebral fractures presents a challenge. Non-standardised radiological reporting can compromise future care decisions. Care providers lack a systematic approach to identify patients at risk.