If you or someone you know is facing spinal fusion surgery, here is some hopeful news. A new analysis of multiple studies suggests that taking vitamin D or bisphosphonates around the time of surgery can improve outcomes.
The analysis looked at patients who received either vitamin D supplements or bisphosphonate drugs (like those used for osteoporosis) before and after spinal fusion. Those who took vitamin D had higher fusion rates at one year, with about a 25% higher chance of successful fusion. They also reported less disability and pain, and better balance.
Bisphosphonates also helped. They sped up early fusion and reduced the risk of new vertebral compression fractures by 90%. However, by one year, fusion rates were similar between the bisphosphonate and vitamin D groups. The analysis also found that vitamin D led to better disability scores at one year compared to bisphosphonates.
This is a meta-analysis, meaning it combines results from several studies. The evidence is considered Level II, which is fairly strong but not the highest. The studies did not report on side effects or long-term follow-up, so more research is needed. Still, the findings support a personalized approach to bone health before spinal fusion.
