Pathological fracture

• What is a pathological fracture?


  Lesion of unknown origin occurring in abnormal bone due to insignificant injury
• What are some signs and symptoms of a pathological fracture?


  Cancer red flags

  Fracture symptoms
• How are pathological fractures managed generally?

  Depends on the pathophys of causative lesion
• How are pathological fractures managed surgically?


  Plates/prosthetic to replace bone
• What bloods tests are done for pathological fractures?

  FBC

  ESR

  PSA

  Coags

  Serum protein

  Electrophoresis

  CEA
• What scans are done for pathological fractures?

  CXR

  X-ray of fracture site

  CT with contrast

  Whole body scintigraphy
• What bedside investigations are done for pathological fractures?


  History - FHx or PMHx of cancer

  Spine exam

  Focused exam of extremities

  Urinalysis
• What are some risk factors of pathological fractures?

  Mets

  Primary malignant tumours

  Bone disease

  Local benign conditions