Glasgow health service celebrating 20 years
A SERVICE set up by two Glasgow doctors and adopted across the world is celebrating its 20th year.
The Fracture Liaison Service (FLS) was the brainchild of Stephen Gallacher and Alastair McLellan – they realised that checking patients over the age of 50 who presented with a fracture for osteoporosis, and treating those diagnosed, could help prevent future breaks.
A simple scan spots any issues with bone density and, if required, those at risk can be given a number of treatment options.
Last July, Margaret Cuddihy reached for the top shelf of her fridge, lost her balance and fell on to hard kitchen tiles.
She said: “I knew immediately that something was up, as I couldn’t get off the floor.
“I’m 80 and I’ve had loads of falls before and I’ve got two artificial knees, but that was the first time I’ve ever broken a bone.”
Margaret, a retired midwife from Giffnock, was treated at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital for her broken wrist. She was later contacted by a specialist FLS nurse and a scan revealed she had mild osteoporosis.
Dr Gallacher, a consultant endocrinologist based at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, says early diagnosis of osteoporosis brings huge benefits.
He added: “The more we can reduce the risk of fractures, the longer people live and the higher their quality of life.
“It’s been 20 years since we started and it’s really pleasing to see our concept rolled out right across the world. It’s nice to look back and say that it’s made a difference. But on a day-today basis, it’s all about the team – and we’ve got teams across all acute sites helping to reduce fracture risk each and every day. The difference that makes to people’s lives is extraordinary.”