Prophylactic Bilateral Intramedullary Femoral Nails for Bisphosphonate-associated Signs of Impending Subtrochanteric Hip Fracture

Abstract

In the short and midterm, bisphosphonates have proven highly efficacious in the prevention of low-energy fractures, but long-term results and adverse effects have yet to be definitively identified. Of particular concern are emerging reports of long-term bisphosphonate users presenting with unusual low-energy subtrochanteric femur fractures. Perhaps associated with hyperactive bone remodeling leading to an eventually weakened bony architecture, the efficacy of longer-term bisphosphonate use has come into question, especially in those with >5 years of therapy.This article describes a case of a 65-year-old woman with a 10-year history of bisphosphonate use who presented with prodromal thigh pain and characteristic radiographic findings indicative of potential impending subtrochanteric insufficiency fracture. Supported by reports in the literature, unique characteristics of a certain clinical picture warn of potential bisphosphonate-associated subtrochanteric hip fracture; to our knowledge, we present the first reported prophylactic bilateral femoral intramedullary nailing to prevent fragility fracture. A deeper look into the biochemistry behind associated bony weakness caused by long-term incorporation of bisphosphonates is needed, especially if an endpoint to the therapy is to be determined. However, with mounting clinical evidence supporting the risk of bisphosphonate-associated fragility fracture, a characteristic radiographic appearance and clinical presentation cannot be ignored. In the interim, elective surgery may be an efficacious alternative in the treatment of an expected, readily preventable fracture.