Orthonotes
Orthonotes
by the.bonestories
v3.0 Fusion
v3.0 Fusion
tumor topic hub

Pathological Fractures — Workup

Stage before biopsy: define lesion (X‑ray/MRI) and search for primaries (CT CAP, bone scan/PET). Adult common cause is metastasis (BLT KP) or myeloma; in children, benign lesions (UBC/ABC, fibrous dysplasia). Biopsy tract must align with planned incision; core biopsy preferred; avoid contaminating compartments. Stabilize impending/complete fractures with nails/plates ± cement; endoprosthesis for major destruction. Adjuvant systemic therapy and radiotherapy per histology; bisphosphonates/denosumab in metastasis.

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Stage before biopsy: define lesion (X‑ray/MRI) and search for primaries (CT CAP, bone scan/PET). Adult common cause is metastasis (BLT KP) or myeloma; in children, benign lesions (UBC/ABC, fibrous dysplasia). Biopsy tract must align with planned incision; core biopsy preferred; avoid contaminating compartments. Stabilize impending/complete fractures with nails/plates ± cement; endoprosthesis for major destruction. Adjuvant systemic therapy and radiotherapy per histology; bisphosphonates/denosumab in metastasis.
MCQs

High-yield practice questions

Start topic quiz
Question 1

What is the most common cause of pathological fractures in adults?

Question 2

Which imaging modality is preferred for evaluating soft tissue and marrow involvement in suspected pathological fractures?

Question 3

In the workup of a pathological fracture, what is the purpose of conducting a CT scan of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis (CT CAP)?

Question 4

What is the recommended type of biopsy for suspected bone tumors in the context of a pathological fracture?

Question 5

Which of the following is a common benign lesion that can cause pathological fractures in children?

Question 6

What is a key clinical feature that raises suspicion for an underlying neoplastic process in a patient with a pathological fracture?

Question 7

In the management of a pathological fracture with significant bone destruction, which surgical intervention is often employed?

Question 8

What type of lesion is indicated by a lytic bone lesion seen on X-ray?

Question 9

Which of the following treatments may be indicated for metastatic bone disease associated with pathological fractures?

Question 10

Which of the following is NOT a common site for pathological fractures?