The changes of cervical vertebral trabecula in osteoporosis:A scanning electron microscopic(SEM) study

Objective To study the microstructure of the cervical vertebrae in osteoporosis.Methods Eighty vertebrae from 20 cadavers were exanmied by x ray,and divided into two groups:osteoporosis and normal control,based on the changes of the trabecula number on x ray film.Then the specimens were sectioned in the same level,and prepared for being scanned by SEM.Results It showed extensive resorption of the trabecula horizontally and vertically,manifested as thinning,and broken of the trabecula which resulted in widening the intertrabecula space.The collagen fibrils on trabecula surface were loosely arranged.Conclusion The vertebral deformity and fracture with osteoporosis is mainly resulted from the change of the microstructure of vertebral trabecula and the mal arrangement of the collagen fibrils on trabecula surface with loosening the firming effects of the fibrils.