We retrospectively analysed the features and the functional outcome of the thoracolumbar vertebral fractures(TLVF) in geriatric patients who were admitted to Anam hospital between 1991 to 1994. The investigation included the cause, type and level of fracture, and neurologic deficits. Also, the concomitant osteoporosis, length of hospital stay and ambulation status at the time of discharge were included. The geriatirc group, age above 65 years old, was 41 out of total 199 patients with TLVF.
The most common cause of vertebral fracture was "spontaneous"(19 cases) followed by "slip" down(13 cases). The majority of the cases did not show any neurologic deficit except for one case. Osteoporosis as the underlying causes in the radiologic study appeared 77.1% in geriatric and 26% in the young age group. At the time of hospital release 38 cases of geriatric patients were able to ambulate independently with or without walking aids. We conclude that with proper diagnosis and managements of vertebral fractures including the underlying cause of osteoporosis would be able to attain the independent mobility and successfully return to the community life.
