Insufficiency fractures of the sternum: a consequence of thoracic kyphosis?

Abstract

Osteoporosis often leads to thoracic compression fractures and progressive thoracic kyphosis. The kyphosis creates a deforming stress on the sternum that may eventuate in an insufficiency-type stress fracture. The findings in four women with osteoporosis, thoracic kyphosis, and insufficiency fractures of the sternum are reported.