Bone Quality in Spinal Surgery: Evaluation, Implications, and Treatments

Abstract

Bone mineral density (BMD) is generally defined as the concentration or density of bone minerals in bone tissue. It is an indicator of bone quality and is used in the diagnosis of osteopenia or osteoporosis. Poor bone quality has been demonstrated to be associated with significantly higher risk of fragility fractures including those of the hip, distal radius, and spine. It is important for spinal surgeons to understand the implications of BMD on outcomes after spinal surgery, learn the various methods to evaluate it, and be aware of treatment options in the perioperative period.