@annie1
Good luck strengthening your bones. Do you know why you have osteoporosis (is it caused from diet low in calcium or something else)?

Are you doing weight bearing exercises to help build bone along with taking medications/supplements?

Are you working with a dietitian/nutritionist to help you review your diet and supplements to strengthen and build your bones?

This is the response I received when checking AI:

Spinal fusion surgery is a procedure used to join two or more vertebrae in the spine, which can help stabilize the spine and alleviate pain caused by conditions such as degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, or spondylolisthesis. When osteoporosis is present, it can complicate the surgery and recovery process due to the weakened state of the bones.
Considerations for Spinal Fusion Surgery with Osteoporosis
Bone Quality: Osteoporosis leads to decreased bone density, making the vertebrae more fragile. This can affect the ability of the bones to fuse properly after surgery.
Surgical Techniques: Surgeons may use specific techniques to enhance stability and promote fusion. This might include the use of bone grafts, screws, and rods that are designed to provide additional support.
Preoperative Assessment: A thorough evaluation, including imaging studies like X-rays or CT scans, is essential to assess the extent of osteoporosis and plan the surgery accordingly.
Postoperative Care: After surgery, patients with osteoporosis may require additional monitoring and rehabilitation. Physical therapy can help strengthen surrounding muscles and improve overall stability.
Medications: Patients may be prescribed medications to improve bone density before and after surgery. Bisphosphonates or other osteoporosis treatments can be considered to enhance bone health.
Risks: The risks of spinal fusion surgery in patients with osteoporosis include nonunion (failure of the bones to fuse), increased risk of fractures, and complications related to hardware used in the surgery.
Consultation with Specialists: It is often beneficial for patients with osteoporosis to consult both an orthopedic surgeon and a specialist in osteoporosis or endocrinology to optimize treatment plans.
Conclusion
Spinal fusion surgery can be performed in patients with osteoporosis, but it requires careful planning and consideration of the unique challenges posed by the condition. A multidisciplinary approach involving surgeons, physical therapists, and osteoporosis specialists can help improve outcomes and ensure a safer recovery. If you or someone you know is considering this surgery, it's important to discuss all concerns and treatment options with a healthcare provider.