Vertebral-level discrimination of incidental vertebral fractures using volumetric BMD, texture features, and finite element–derived fracture load: an exploratory study

vBMD had the numerically largest AUC point estimate for discriminating fractured from control vertebrae; FEA-derived FL was similar, and selected texture features showed modest discrimination with comparable point estimates across lumbar and thoracic levels, generating the hypothesis of less region dependence. Regional comparisons are descriptive. Findings are exploratory and intended to prioritize candidate measures for validation and future multivariable modeling before any clinical application.