Atypical forearm fractures associated with long-term bisphosphonate use: the perspective of a hand surgeon

Abstract

Bisphosphonates have been widely used to treat osteoporosis, but atypical femoral fractures have emerged as serious complication. Similar fractures of the forearm have been reported since 2010 and retrospective studies have revealed a number of details. Clinicians should remember that bisphosphonates can affect all bony structures in the body. When misdiagnosed as an ordinary fracture and treated with surgical fixation, unexpected nonunion may occur. Therefore, I would like to share our experience from the perspective of a hand surgeon.