Impact of pathological fractures on kinesiophobia and anxiety in patients with benign and benign-aggressive lower extremity bone tumors

Abstract

Objectives: This study aims to evaluate kinesiophobia and anxiety levels in patients with benign and benign-aggressive bone tumors located in the lower extremities.

Patients and methods: Between January 2022 and June 2024, a total of 54 patients (23 males, 31 females; mean age: 35.2±14.5 years; range, 15 to 67 years) who underwent surgery for benign and benign-aggressive bone tumors in the lower extremities were retrospectively analyzed. Of the patients, 16 developed pathological fractures and 38 did not. Kinesiophobia was assessed using the Tampa Kinesiophobia Scale (TKS), and anxiety levels were measured using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-I and STAI-II).

Results: Pathological fractures occurred in 29.6% of cases. The most common tumor types were enchondroma (44.4%), giant cell tumor (18.5%), and aneurysmal bone cyst (11.2%). Patients with pathological fractures had significantly higher TKS, STAI-I, and STAI-II scores than those without fractures (p<0.001, p=0.034, and p<0.001, respectively).

Conclusion: In benign and benign-aggressive musculoskeletal lesions of the lower extremity, implementing prophylactic surgical intervention by predicting fracture risk reduces patients' levels of kinesiophobia and anxiety. Preventing pathological fractures in weight-bearing long bones allows for early mobilization, prevents fracture-related complications, and helps to preserve psychological well-being.