The effect of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents on spinal fusion

A large body of information suggests NSAIDS have a negative impact on the healing of bone. Although each clinical healing scenario presents a slightly different level of challenge, the healing of a posterolateral spinal fusion is one of the most difficult challenges in bony healing. Clinically, this results in a relatively high rate of nonunions using traditional fusion techniques. Spinal fusion models have confirmed NSAIDS have a definite inhibitory effect on healing of the fusion. Although data are limited, it appears this effect is most severe when NSAIDS are administered in the early postoperative period. Moreover, the effect may be worse with certain types initial inflammatory, subsequent reparative, and final remodeling phases. Because of the anti-inflammatory activity of NSAIDS, one might assume their effects would be worse when administered in the inflammatory phase. Indeed, the study by Riew et al suggests the inhibitory effects are more significant when NSAIDS are administered earlier following fusion. Other studies conducted with non-spinal models also suggest early administration of NSAIDS results in greater inhibition of bone formation (Goodman et al). Unfortunately, the length of the inflammatory phase in humans is not well known. This leaves the clinician unsure about the safe time to allow resumption of NSAID usage clinically. It appears likely NSAID use following a spinal fusion procedure will increase the rate of pseudarthrosis. The literature suggests that avoidance of NSAIDS in the postoperative period may avoid nonunion. Additionally, we propose that chronic NSAID usage should be addressed in a similar manner to cigarette smoking. While neither are absolute contraindications to elective spinal fusion, patients should be counseled to discontinue the use of NSAIDS in the peri- and postoperative period to maximize their chance for a successful fusion.