Imaging and opportunistic identification of fractures

Osteoporosis is characterised by low bone mineral density and micro-architectural deterioration of bone leading to an increased risk of low-trauma fractures, associated morbidity and mortality. This article describes the advances in imaging of osteoporosis including opportunistic identification of low bone density and vertebral fractures. One in two women and one in five men over the age of 50 will sustain a fracture, most of which are attributable to osteoporosis.1 Osteoporosis is characterised by reduced bone density and micro-architectural deterioration of bone; it is a common metabolic bone disease in the elderly population resulting in an increased risk of fracture.2 Patients