Study DesignMulticenter prospective cohort study.ObjectiveThe study aims to validate the recently developed OF score for treatment
decisions in patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures
(OVCF).MethodsThis is a prospective multicenter cohort study (EOFTT) in 17 spine centers.
All consecutive patients with OVCF were included. The decision for
conservative or surgical therapy was made by the treating physician
independent of the OF score recommendation. Final decisions were compared to
the recommendations given by the OF score. Outcome parameters were
complications, Visual Analogue Scale, Oswestry Disability Questionnaire,
Timed Up & Go test, EQ-5D 5 L, and Barthel Index.ResultsIn total, 518 patients (75.3% female, age 75 ± 10) years were included. 344
(66%) patients received surgical treatment. 71% of patients were treated
following the score recommendations. For an OF score cut-off value of 6.5,
the sensitivity and specificity to predict actual treatment were 60% and 68%
(AUC .684,P< .001). During hospitalization overall 76
(14.7%) complications occurred. The mean follow-up rate and time were 92%
and 5 ± 3.5 months, respectively. While all patients in the study cohort
improved in clinical outcome parameters, the effect size was significantly
less in the patients not treated in line with the OF score’s recommendation.
Eight (3%) patients needed revision surgery.ConclusionsPatients treated according to the OF score’s recommendations showed favorable
short-term clinical results. Noncompliance with the score resulted in more
pain and impaired functional outcome and quality of life. The OF score is a
reliable and save tool to aid treatment decision in OVCF.