WCO IOF- ESCEO 2025: A Spine Surgeon Perspective on the Need for Spine and Bone Health Optimization

There is a critical gap in spine surgeons’ awareness of the need for perioperative spine health optimization, including comprehensive bone health assessment, to improve surgical outcomes and reduce complications. Osteoporosis is highly prevalent among spine surgery patients, yet often underdiagnosed. 

Surgeons should implement systematic care pathways, such as Fracture Liaison Service programs, to identify and manage osteoporosis preoperatively. Vertebral compression fractures must be treated as aggressively as hip fractures, using interventions including anabolic agents. Collaborative models between spine/orthopaedic surgeons and bone health specialists offer opportunities to enhance patient care and long-term outcomes. The National Spine Health Foundation (NSHF) provides educational platforms to equip healthcare professionals with evidence-based strategies for optimizing spine and bone health.

Reference

NSS116, A Spine Surgeon Perspective on the Need for Spine and Bone Health Optimization. .World Congress on Osteoporosis, Osteoarthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases (WCO IOF-ESCEO 2025), April 10-13, 2025, Rome Italy.