Many elderly adults who have scoliosis also have osteoporosis. Often, osteoporosis can be a contributing factor in the development of adult scoliosis, especially the degenerative kind. Osteoporosis makes it difficult for the surgeon to hold the spine in a corrected position with spinal instrumentation, and there is a greater chance of hardware failure in bone that is weakened by the loss of calcium. The special bone screws that surgeons use to hold the vertebral bodies together may loosen or pull away from the bone. Osteoporosis also increases the chances of a pseudoarthrosis occurring after spine surgery since the bones are not able to grow together well when they have been depleted of calcium.

Elderly women who have scoliosis and are contemplating surgery are especially at risk of having osteoporosis affect the outcome of surgery. A family or personal history of broken bones after the age of fifty as the result of minor falls is a concerning sign. A bone mineral density test is the best way to tell if you have osteoporosis, and if you have any specific concerns you should address them with your doctor. There are many things that can be done in an attempt to increase the amount of calcium in the bones prior to surgery, and this should be discussed with your doctor if you are considering spine surgery.

Published: July 11, 2002

Updated: December 27, 2005

It is important that you discuss the potential risks, complications, and benefits of spinal surgery with your doctor prior to receiving treatment, and that you rely on your physician's judgment. Only your doctor can determine whether you are a suitable candidate for this treatment.

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