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Soft cervical spine, but DEXA/TBS minor osteopenia.

Posted by cllsewlily @cllsewlily, 8 hours ago

Soft cervical spine, but DEXA/TBS minor osteopenia.
My sister (postmenopausal >15 years) recently had 3Level Cervical ACDF. During the procedure the surgeon indicated her bone was soft. Her Dexa and TBS shows only mild osteopenia, which does not explain the soft cervical bone. Here in Florida (central west coast) we have been unable to find a facility which offers QCT. She has over the years has daily use of PPI's and nasal sprays which included a steroid (she has now stopped the nasal spray). Her lab results 4wks after the ACDF P1nP after the surgery is 83, CTX 848. Thyroid, PTH, D3, all within normal levels. Calcium a little low so she will increase from 500mg to 1000mg daily. Endocrinologist is stumped.
Has anyone encountered this condition (soft cervical bone but mild osteopenia per TBS/DEXA)? Is anyone aware of Florida locations to get a QCT?

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gently | @gently | 4 minutes ago

Cllsewlily, CTX usually rises after fusion peaking at four to eight weeks. On the basis of the "soft" cervical bone, it might be good to take a course of Forteo or Tymlos. These drugs increase the integrity of the bind between the hardware and the bone. Screws can shift in soft bone.
You are more likely to find the QCT scans at a university hospital associated with the bone research dept (University of Florida Jacksonville).
No matter the results of a QCT you might want a medication to help integrate the hardware in the neck. and incidentally improving architecture in the rest of the spine and hip.
Oh, the luck of having a good sister!

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