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Author Spotlight: Enhancing Accuracy and Reproducibility in Whole Bone Bending Tests
Published on: September 1, 2023
[Anticoagulant and bone fragility: which implications for clinical practice?]
Anne Pelet1, Olivier Lamy1,2
1Centre interdisciplinaire des maladies osseuses, CHUV, 1011 lausanne.
Abstract:
The role of certain treatments in the development of bone fragility is well known. Since the 2000s, several studies, conducted in patients on long-term anticoagulants have suggested the involvement of vitamin K antagonist (VKA) in the occurrence of osteoporotic fractures. Since their launch in 2008, the new oral anticoagulants (NOACs) have been widely used. Compared to VKA, this drugs' class is associated with a lower fracture risk. Therefore, the presence of risk factors for fracture should be considered when prescribing long-term anticoagulants. In this line, the NOACs seem to be an interesting alternative for patients at risk of fracture requiring a long-term anticoagulation. Nevertheless, certain aspects remain to be clarified.
Insights
Vitamin K antagonists (VKA) may increase fracture risk in patients needing anticoagulation. New oral anticoagulants (NOACs) show a lower risk, making them a potential alternative for fracture-prone individuals.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Orthopedics
- Gerontology
Background:
- Bone fragility is linked to certain medical treatments.
- Long-term use of vitamin K antagonists (VKA) has been associated with an increased risk of osteoporotic fractures since the 2000s.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the fracture risk associated with new oral anticoagulants (NOACs) compared to VKAs.
- To inform anticoagulant selection for patients at risk of fractures.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of fracture incidence in patients using VKAs versus NOACs.
- Review of existing literature and clinical data on anticoagulant-associated fracture risk.
Main Results:
- New oral anticoagulants (NOACs) are associated with a lower fracture risk compared to vitamin K antagonists (VKA).
Conclusions:
- NOACs represent a potentially safer alternative for long-term anticoagulation in patients with fracture risk factors.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the long-term skeletal effects of NOACs.
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