ABSTRACT
Metastatic fractures are a serious threat to the well-being of the elderly population. Patients with metastatic fractures need prompt identification of the fracture and appropriate treatment that takes into accounts both quality and quantity of life remaining. Bone pain is the most common presenting symptom of a patient with an impending metastatic fracture. Treatment of metastatic and impending metastatic fractures is determined by a multitude of factors. Radiation therapy has several important roles in the treatment of patients with metastatic bone disease. Chemotherapy, including the newer targeted molecular therapies and hormone receptor antagonists, is a critical component in the management of patients with metastatic bone disease and pathological fractures. Surgical intervention for metastatic and impending meta-static fractures is an extremely valuable tool in the care of patients with metastatic bone disease. The vertebral body is the most common boney location for metastatic carcinoma.
