Calcitonin Promotes Faster Healing of Spinal Fractures in Osteoporotic Patients

Abstract

AIM: To delineate the effect of calcitonin on the healing of osteoporotic spinal fractures in non-operative treatment and compare it to another treatment for the same pathology (bisphosphonates) Methods: This was a prospective double blind study. We evaluated data derived from the medical files of two comparable groups of osteoporotic patients: Group A (calcitonin + calcium) and Group B (bisphosphonate). Both groups were originally diagnosed with osteoporosis in the time of fracture and were both treated conservatively with a brace and osteoporotic medication. Radiography was used to evaluate fracture consolidation. Profile views of radiographical images were taken in the time of diagnosis and 3, 6, 9, and 12 months after that. CT was performed to evaluate bone union 6 and 12 months after surgery. QUALEFFO-41 was used as an evaluation scoring tool in order to appraise problems affecting day to day activity, access mobility issues and general well being. Results: Average periods of bone union in the calcitonin group were significantly shorter and at 12-month follow-up, the proportion of patients with bone union was better in the calcitonin group. Patients the calcitonin group were stopping pain medication earlier and they were discarding their braces sooner. T scores of group A at the end of the study follow up were statistically significant. Conclusions: The implementation of Calcitonin shows a favorable outcome in spinal pathological fractures with an increase in fracture consolidation and improved quality of life.