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Metabolic bone disease in lumbar pseudarthrosis
J Schofferman1, L Schofferman, J Zucherman
1SpineCare Medical Group, San Francisco Spine Institute, Daly City.
Spine
|July 1, 1990
Summary
Metabolic bone abnormalities are uncommon in patients with pseudarthrosis after lumbar spine fusion. This study found few patients with abnormal bone metabolism, suggesting it
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Metabolic Bone Disease
- Spine Surgery
Background:
- Pseudarthrosis, or failed fusion, is a complication of lumbar spine fusion.
- Bone metabolism abnormalities are suspected contributors to pseudarthrosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the prevalence of metabolic bone disease in patients with pseudarthrosis after lumbar spine fusion.
Main Methods:
- 47 symptomatic patients with pseudarthrosis underwent metabolic bone evaluation.
- Laboratory tests and bone density measurements were performed.
Main Results:
- Abnormal laboratory results were found in 7 patients (14.9%).
- Low or borderline 1,25 dihydroxy vitamin D3 (3 patients), elevated 24-hour urine calcium (2 patients), and low serum testosterone (2 patients) were observed.
- Low bone density was found in 14 of 24 patients, but did not correlate with smoking or lab values.
Conclusions:
- Metabolic bone abnormalities do not appear to be a frequent or significant factor in pseudarthrosis following lumbar spine fusion.