Management of vertebral fragility fractures: A clinical care pathway developed by a multispecialty panel using the RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method

Publication date: Available online 7 August 2018

Source: The Spine Journal

Author(s): Joshua A. Hirsch, Douglas P. Beall, M. Renée Chambers, Thomas G. Andreshak, Allan L. Brook, Brian M. Bruel, H. Gordon Deen, Peter C. Gerszten, D. Scott Kreiner, Charles A. Sansur, Sean M. Tutton, Peter van der Meer, Herman J. Stoevelaar

Abstract

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

Vertebral fragility fractures (VFF), mostly due to osteoporosis, are very common and are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. There is a lack of consensus on the appropriate management of patients with or suspected of having a VFF.

PURPOSE

This work aimed at developing a comprehensive clinical care pathway (CCP) for VFF.

STUDY DESIGN/SETTING

The RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method (RUAM) was used to develop patient-specific recommendations for the various components of the CCP. The study included two individual rating rounds and two plenary discussion sessions.

METHODS

A multispecialty expert panel (orthopedic and neurosurgeons, interventional [neuro]radiologists and pain specialists) assessed the importance of 20 signs and symptoms for the suspicion of VFF, the relevance of 5 diagnostic procedures, the appropriateness of vertebral augmentation versus non-surgical management for 576 clinical scenarios, and the adequacy of 6 aspects of follow-up care. This work was funded by a grant from Medtronic Inc. ($ 180,000). The funder was not involved in the selection of panel members or conduct of the study. Disclosure of the funder to panel members and vice versa took place after manuscript submission.

RESULTS

The panel identified 10 signs and symptoms believed to be relatively specific for VFF. In patients suspected of VFF, advanced imaging was considered highly desirable, with MRI being the preferred diagnostic modality. Vertebral augmentation was considered appropriate in patients with positive findings on advanced imaging and in whom symptoms had worsened and in patients with 2 to 4 unfavorable conditions (e.g. progression of height loss, severe impact on functioning), dependent on their relative weight. Time since fracture was considered less relevant for treatment choice. Follow-up should include evaluation of bone mineral density and treatment of osteoporosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Using the RUAM, a multispecialty expert panel established a comprehensive CCP for the management of VFF. The CCP may be helpful to support decision-making in daily clinical practice and to improve quality of care.

https://ift.tt/2KBx3Wt