Low-energy vertebral fractures requiring a fusion in the elderly associate higher mortality than high-energy injuries

Purpose: This study aims to analyze whether mortality in patients over 50 years of age requiring vertebral fusion for a thoracolumbar fracture depends on the injury mechanism (high or low energy), as well as to determine independent risk factors for mortality in this patient profile. Methods: Patients aged 50 or more years with thoracolumbar fractures who required vertebral fusion for this reason between 2008 and 2021 were included in the study. Survival was determined with the Kaplan-Meier method, and Cox regression analyses were used to determine mortality risk factors.