Use of Hounsfield units of S1 body to diagnose osteoporosis in patients with lumbar degenerative diseases

Assessment of trabecular bone Hounsfield units in the lumbar spine for osteoporosis evaluation in individuals aged 65 and above: a review

Osteoporosis is a prevalent condition that significantly increases fracture risk, particularly in the elderly population. Despite its widespread occurrence, osteoporosis is often underdiagnosed and inadequately managed. Traditional diagnostic methods, such as dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), have limitations in terms of accessibility and accuracy, necessitating exploration of alternative diagnostic approaches.This review aims to evaluate the diagnostic potential of Hounsfield Unit (HU) values derived from abdominal computed tomography (CT) scans, specifically focusing on the trabecular bone of the lumbar spine, for osteoporosis assessment in individuals aged 65 and older. The review seeks to assess the sensitivity, specificity, and overall diagnostic performance of HU values in distinguishing between normal bone density, osteopenia, and osteoporosis, and to identify areas for further investigation to establish standardized diagnostic criteria.This review compiles existing studies on the use of HU values from abdominal CT scans for osteoporosis diagnosis. It examines the relationship between HU values and DXA T-scores, analyzes optimal HU thresholds for classifying bone density categories, and explores the potential of CT scans as a viable alternative to DXA.The findings indicate that HU values from abdominal CT scans show strong correlations with DXA T-scores, suggesting a promising diagnostic tool for assessing bone density and quality. HU values have demonstrated the ability to differentiate between osteopenia, osteoporosis, and normal bone density, with varying sensitivity and specificity depending on the established HU threshold. CT scans are identified as a scalable, cost-effective alternative to DXA, with the added benefit of utilizing routine abdominal CT scans, which are often conducted for other clinical reasons, thereby reducing additional costs and radiation exposure.HU values derived from abdominal CT scans represent a promising approach for osteoporosis screening, offering a potential solution for routine, cost-effective, and accurate diagnosis, especially in older adults. However, there is a need for standardized HU thresholds and further research to refine diagnostic criteria and enhance the accuracy of osteoporosis detection. Establishing standardized guidelines would improve diagnostic consistency and facilitate early intervention, potentially improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare burdens.

The Degree of Cervical Intervertebral Disc Degeneration Is Associated With Denser Bone Quality of the Cervical Sub-endplate and Vertebral Body

OBJECTIVE

The relationship between cervical disc degeneration and bone quality of adjacent vertebral body remains controversial. This study aims to investigate the relationship between cervical disc degeneration and bone quality of the adjacent vertebral body and sub-endplate bone with a new MRI-based bone quality score in patients over 50 years with cervical spondylosis.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 479 cervical disc segments from 131 patients. Disc degeneration at levels C3/C4-C6/C7 was graded using T2-weighted MRI. Vertebral body quality (VBQ) score and sub-endplate bone quality (EBQ) score from C3 to C7 were computed from T1-weighted MRI images. Additionally, bone mineral density (BMD) of the cervical vertebrae was measured in 52 patients using a novel phantom-less quantitative computed tomography (PL-QCT) system. The correlation between bone quality score and Pfirrmann grade was analyzed and risk factors for VBQ and EBQ were further evaluated.

RESULTS

Significant differences were found in cranial VBQ among different Pfirrmann grades, with a score of 2.55 ± 0.54 for Grade 5 discs, which was lower compared to Grades 4 (2.70 ± 0.56) (p < 0.05) and 3 (2.81 ± 0.58) (p < 0.01). Caudal VBQ for Grade 5 discs (2.43 ± 0.52) was also significantly lower than for Grade 3 discs (2.66 ± 0.54) (p < 0.01). EBQ scores decreased with increasing Pfirrmann grades. Negative correlations were observed between both cranial and caudal VBQ and EBQ scores and Pfirrmann grades. Grades 4 and 5 discs were identified as independent risk factors for decreased caudal VBQ and EBQ, whereas only Grade 5 was a significant risk factor for decreased cranial EBQ. Additionally, a moderate correlation (0.4 < R < 0.6, p < 0.05) was noted between vertebral body BMD and VBQ at each cervical level.

CONCLUSION

In individuals over 50 years with cervical spondylosis, the severity of disc degeneration was closely correlated with denser bone quality in both the caudal vertebral body and sub-endplate, as measured by VBQ and EBQ scores. These findings suggest that worsening disc degeneration is associated with increased bone density in specific areas of the cervical spine.

Risk prediction model of pedicle screw loosening within 2 years after decompression and instrumented fusion surgery for degenerative lumbar disease

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

Pedicle screw loosening (PSL) after spinal fusion surgery is one of the most frequently reported complications and leads to poor clinical outcomes.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to develop and validate a risk prediction model for PSL within two years in patients undergoing lumbar instrumented fusion surgery based on their risk profiles.

STUDY DESIGN/SETTING

Retrospective, observational study.

PATIENT SAMPLE

Patients who underwent lumbar instrumented fusion surgery at a single academic institution between May 2015 and February 2019.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Risk assessment of PSL and development of a rating score based on patient characteristics.

METHODS

The demographic profiles and radiographic parameters using computed tomography were obtained. These factors were analyzed to determine possible risk factors related to postoperative PSL after 2 years. A scoring system was developed using these independent risk factors and validated using prospectively collected data from another center between May 2019 and December 2021.

RESULTS

The occurrence of PSL within 2 years postoperation was 12.7% (40/315). PSL was significantly predicted by smoking, low Hounsfield units (HU) of the pedicle tract at the index level (P), and a low psoas-lumbar vertebral index (PLVI). The risk of PSL according to the categories of the risk score was 1.1% for those with a score of 0-1, 15.1% for a score of 2-3, and 61.5% for a score of 4-6. In validation, this model demonstrated both good discrimination and calibration results. The area under the curve was 0.887 (95% CI 0.830-0.938) for the derivation cohort and 0.835 (95% CI 0.738-0.918) for the external validation cohort.

CONCLUSIONS

This PSL risk score, including smoking, Index P HU, and PLVI, is a novel approach to predict PSL 2 years post-surgery. This approach highlights the role of factors associated with osteoporosis and sarcopenia in the development of PSL and could aid in preoperative decision-making and surgical planning.

Surgical Management of Adult Spinal Deformity Patients with Osteoporosis

Adult spinal deformity (ASD) commonly affects older adults, with up to 68% prevalence in those over 60, and is often complicated by osteoporosis, which reduces bone mineral density (BMD) and increases surgical risks. Osteoporotic patients undergoing ASD surgery face higher risks of complications like hardware failure, pseudoarthrosis, and proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK). Medical management with antiresorptive medications (e.g., bisphosphonates, SERMs, and denosumab) and anabolic agents (e.g., teriparatide, abaloparatide, and romosozumab) can improve BMD and reduce complications. While bisphosphonates reduce fracture risk, teriparatide and newer agents like romosozumab show promise in increasing bone density and improving fusion rates. Surgical adaptations such as consideration of age-adjusted alignment, fusion level selection, cement augmentation, and the use of expandable screws or tethers enhance surgical outcomes in osteoporotic patients. Specifically, expandable screws and cement augmentation have been shown to improve fixation stability. However, further research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of these treatments, specifically in osteoporotic ASD patients.

Magnetic resonance imaging phantom-based S1 vertebral scores are indicators of fat-water-like osteoporotic changes in postmenopausal women: a pilot study

STUDY DESIGN

A prospective study.

PURPOSE

To assess fat-water-like tissue changes on the 1st sacral vertebra using novel magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) phantombased F- and W-scores and evaluate their diagnostic performances in osteoporosis detection.

OVERVIEW OF LITERATURE

Using an uncommonly advanced MRI technique, previous studies have found that fat-water changes were consistent with osteoporosis. The role of routine MRI sequences can be extended in this regard. The S1 vertebra is considered a crucial anatomical site in spine surgeries because it seldom suffers from fractures. Thus, S1 could indicate osteoporotic fat-water changes.

METHODS

Forty-two female volunteers (aged 62.3±6.3 years) underwent spine examination with both MRI (including a phantom) and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) following ethical approval. MRI phantom-based F- and W-scoreS1 were defined by normalizing S1 vertebral signal intensities (SIs) by coconut oil and water SIs of the phantom on T1- and T2-weighted imaging, respectively. Using receiver operating characteristic analysis, the diagnostic performances of the new scores for evaluating osteoporosis and vertebral fractures were investigated against standard areal bone mineral density measured with DXA (DXA-aBMD).

RESULTS

The F-scoreS1 and W-scoreS1 were greater (4.11 and 2.43, respectively) in patients with osteoporosis than those without osteoporosis (3.25 and 1.92, respectively) and achieved areas under the curve (AUCs) of 0.82 and 0.76 (p<0.05), respectively, for osteoporosis detection. Similarly, the mean F-scoreS1 and W-scoreS1 were higher (4.11 and 2.63, respectively) in patients with vertebral fractures than in those without fractures (3.30 and 1.82, respectively) and had greater AUCs (0.90 for W-scoreS1 and 0.74 for F-scoreS1) than DXA-aBMD (AUC, 0.26; p<0.03). In addition, the F- and W-scoreS1 demonstrated a strong correlation (r=0.65, p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The new S1 vertebral-based MRI scores were developed to detect osteoporotic changes and demonstrated improvements over DXA-aBMD in differentiating patients with vertebral fractures.

Evaluation of the modified MRI vertebral bone quality score for bone quality in lumbar degenerative disorders

OBJECTIVE

The traditional VBQ scoring method may lead to overestimation due to the concentration of intravertebral fat and vascular structures in the posterior half of vertebral bodies, potentially resulting in false-positive outcomes. This study aims to modify the measurement method of VBQ score (Modified-VBQ) and evaluate its effectiveness in evaluating bone quality of lumbar degenerative diseases.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis was conducted on clinical data from patients undergoing lumbar surgery for degenerative diseases between September 2022 and September 2023. Preoperative lumbar t1-weighted Magnetic resonance imaging was used for both modified and traditional VBQ scoring. Computed tomography (CT) images and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) data were collected through the picture archiving and communication system. The effectiveness of the modified VBQ score was evaluated, considering P < 0.05 as statistically significant.

RESULTS

The study included 212 patients, revealing a significant difference between the modified VBQ and VBQ scores (P < 0.0001). Notably, patients with a history of hyperlipidemia exhibited a significant difference between the two scores (P = 0.0037). The area under the ROC curve (AUC) for the modified VBQ was 0.86, surpassing the VBQ score (AUC = 0.74). Linear regression analysis demonstrated a moderate to strong correlation between the modified VBQ and DEXA T-score (r = - 0.49, P < 0.0001) and a high correlation with CT Hounsfield units (HU) values (r = - 0.60, P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

The modified VBQ score provides a simple, effective, and relatively accurate means of assessing bone quality in lumbar degenerative diseases. Preoperative implementation of the modified VBQ score facilitates rapid screening for patients with abnormal bone quality.

Using advanced imaging to measure bone density, compression fracture risk, and risk for construct failure after spine surgery

Low bone mineral density (BMD) can predispose to vertebral body compression fractures and postoperative instrumentation failure. DEXA is considered the gold standard for measurement of BMD, however it is not obtained for all spine surgery patients preoperatively. There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that more routinely acquired spine imaging studies such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be opportunistically used to measure BMD. Here we review available studies that assess the validity of opportunistic screening with CT-derived Hounsfield Units (HU) and MRI-derived vertebral vone quality (VBQ) to measure BMD of the spine as well the utility of these measures in predicting postoperative outcomes. Additionally, we provide screening thresholds based on HU and VBQ for prediction of osteopenia/ osteoporosis and postoperative outcomes such as cage subsidence, screw loosening, proximal junctional kyphosis, and implant failure.

Simplified S1 vertebral bone quality score independently predicts proximal junctional kyphosis after surgery for degenerative lumbar scoliosis

OBJECTIVE

Our study aimed to assess the effectiveness of the simplified S1 vertebral bone quality (VBQ) score in predicting the incidence of proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) after surgery for degenerative lumbar scoliosis (DLS).

METHODS

We reviewed 122 patients with DLS who underwent posterior lumbar decompression and long-segment fusion surgery in our hospital from January 2016 to December 2020. The patients were classified into PJK group and non-PJK group. S1 VBQ scores are determined by signal intensity measurements taken from the mid-sagittal plane of T1-weighted non-contrast MRI. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with PJK. Receiver-operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis was used to evaluate the value of S1 VBQ score in predicting pedicle PJK after DLS.

RESULTS

122 DLS patients (90 females and 32 males) met the inclusion criteria. In addition, 27 patients (22.13%) had PJK at the time of last follow-up. VBQ was higher in PJK patients than non-PJK patients (3.58 ± 0.67 vs. 3.08 ± 0.54, p < 0.001). Preoperatively, patients in the PJK group had a greater TLK than those in the non-PJK group (20.00 ± 6.22 vs. 16.86 ± 5.38, p = 0.011). After surgery, patients in the PJK group had greater TLK (p < 0.001) and PJA (p < 0.001) compared with the non-PJK group. At final FU, patients in the PJK group had greater TK (p = 0.002), TLK (p < 0.001), SVA (p < 0.001), and PJA (p < 0.001) than patients in the non-PJK group (Table 4). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, higher VBQ score (OR 4.565, 95% CI 1.43-14.568, p = 0.010), advanced age (OR 1.119, 95% CI 1.021-1.227, p = 0.016), and larger TLK (OR 1.191, 95% CI 1.041-1.362, p = 0.011) were significant predictors of postoperative PJK in patients with DLS (Table 6). A statistically significant positive correlation existed between VBQ score and PJA change (r = 0.370, p < 0.001). We created ROC curves for VBQ scores as predictors of PJK with a diagnostic accuracy of 72.1% (95% CI 60.15-82.9%.The ideal limit for the VBQ score was 3.205 (sensitivity: 77.8%, specificity: 81.4%).

CONCLUSION

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to evaluate the effectiveness of the S1 VBQ score in predicting postoperative PJK in DLS. Our study included major risk factors and found that S1 VBQ score was a significant predictor of PJK in patients undergoing DLS surgery. The higher the S1 VBQ score, the higher the probability of PJK.

Longitudinal Study on Pre- and Post-Operation CT Imaging for Predicting Pedicle Screw Loosening in Patients with Lumbar Degenerative Disease

Purpose

We conducted a longitudinal study to examine the predictive role of risk factors in the occurrence of pedicle screw loosening, assessed through pre- and post-operative computed tomography (CT) scans.

Methods

A total of 103 patients with degenerative lumbar disease who had undergone L4/5 pedicle screw fixation (involving 412 screws) were included in this study. They were subsequently categorized into two groups-the "loosening group" and the "non-loosening group". The axial and sagittal angles of the screw trajectory in pre- and post-operative CT images were measured, and the deviation angles were computed. Additionally, measurements were taken of the Hounsfield unit (HU) within the screw entry point area, the pedicle, and the vertebral body in preoperative CT images. Logistic regression analysis was employed to ascertain the risk factors influencing the occurrence of screw loosening.

Results

Elderly patients who experienced screw loosening tended to have bilateral screw issues at the L5 level (p < 0.005). The HU of the pedicle (p < 0.001), age (p < 0.001), and the axial deviation angle (p = 0.014) were identified as independent factors predicting screw loosening. Additionally, when HU of the pedicle < 126.5 or age ≥ 53.5 years, the axial deviation angle was found to be smaller in the group experiencing screw loosening (p = 0.018 and p = 0.019).

Conclusion

Loosening of screws positioned at L5 was found to be more prevalent in elderly patients, particularly exhibiting a bilateral occurrence. Independent predictors of this phenomenon included a low HU value in the pedicle, advanced age in patients, and a substantial axial deviation angle. In the case of elderly patients with a low HU value in the pedicle, a reduced axial surgical deflection was necessitated to prevent the occurrence of screw loosening.

Combinations of two imaging parameters to improve bone mineral density (BMD) assessment in patients with lumbar degenerative diseases

PURPOSE

To explore whether combining the Hounsfield unit (HU) values and vertebral bone quality (VBQ) scores can improve the BMD assessment in patients with lumbar degenerative diseases.

METHODS

The HU values were measured by CT image, and VBQ scores were calculated by lumbar MRI image. The correlations of the opportunistic imaging parameters to the lowest T-scores were analyzed. Receiver-operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis was used to evaluate the accuracy in detecting osteoporosis. Finally, the specificity and sensitivity of different combined methods of the HU values and VBQ scores in the diagnosis of osteoporosis were compared.

RESULTS

Patients with osteoporosis had the lowest HU values and the highest VBQ scores. The correlation coefficients between the VBQ scores and the T-scores were smaller than HU values (L1 HU value: 0.702; average HU value:0.700; L1 VBQ score: -0.413; VBQ score: -0.386). The areas under the curve (AUCs) of the HU values were greater than those of the VBQ scores, and the AUCs of the L1 VBQ score were similar to the VBQ score (L1 HU value: 0.850; average HU value:0.857; L1 VBQ score: 0.704; VBQ score: 0.673). When combining the two imaging parameters in series, the specificity of the detection of osteoporosis was improved (L1 HU value and L1 VBQ score: 87.3%; Average HU value and VBQ score: 85.9%). When combining the two imaging parameters in parallel, the sensitivity of the detection of osteoporosis was improved (L1 HU value or L1 VBQ score: 88.1%; Average HU value or VBQ score: 91.5%).

CONCLUSIONS

Combinations of the HU values and VBQ scores could improve the diagnostic performance of osteoporosis. In addition, considering the same diagnostic performance but easier measurement, parameters at the single-segment level were recommended to assist in the diagnosis of osteoporosis.

Correlation analysis of the vertebral compression degree and CT HU value in elderly patients with osteoporotic thoracolumbar fractures

BACKGROUND

To explore the correlation of the vertebral compression degree and cancellous bone CT HU in elderly patients with osteoporotic thoracolumbar fractures.

METHODS

Elderly patients with single-segment vertebral fragility fractures were retrospectively reviewed. All patients experienced a low-energy trauma and underwent thoracolumbar MRI. The consistency of measurement between two spine surgeons was evaluated. The average CT HU value of the adjacent vertebral body was used instead.

RESULTS

A total of 54 patients were included in the final analysis. The patients' average age was 70.39 ± 8.53 years, and the average CT HU value was 72.78 ± 29.75 HU. The average vertebral compression ratio was 0.57 ± 0.16. Measurements showed both good intrarater repeatability and good interrater reproducibility of the vertebral compression ratio (ICC = 0.978). The degree of vertebral compression in thoracolumbar osteoporotic fractures was strongly positively correlated with the cancellous bone CT HU value (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The local bone quality as evaluated by the CT HU value is an important factor affecting the degree of compression in osteoporotic vertebral fractures. This study provides quantitative evidence that a greater compression ratio with thoracolumbar osteoporotic fractures was associated with lower bone density in elderly patients. Further longitudinal studies with larger cohorts are needed to verify this relationship.

Promotion effect of FGF23 on osteopenia in congenital scoliosis through FGFr3/TNAP/OPN pathway

BACKGROUND

Congenital scoliosis (CS) is a complex spinal malformation of unknown etiology with abnormal bone metabolism. Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23), secreted by osteoblasts and osteocytes, can inhibit bone formation and mineralization. This research aims to investigate the relationship between CS and FGF23.

METHODS

We collected peripheral blood from two pairs of identical twins for methylation sequencing of the target region. FGF23 mRNA levels in the peripheral blood of CS patients and age-matched controls were measured. Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve analyses were conducted to evaluate the specificity and sensitivity of FGF23. The expression levels of FGF23 and its downstream factors fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (FGFr3)/tissue non-specific alkaline phosphatase (TNAP)/osteopontin (OPN) in primary osteoblasts from CS patients (CS-Ob) and controls (CT-Ob) were detected. In addition, the osteogenic abilities of FGF23-knockdown or FGF23-overexpressing Ob were examined.

RESULTS

DNA methylation of the FGF23 gene in CS patients was decreased compared to that of their identical twins, accompanied by increased mRNA levels. CS patients had increased peripheral blood FGF23 mRNA levels and decreased computed tomography (CT) values compared with controls. The FGF23 mRNA levels were negatively correlated with the CT value of the spine, and ROCs of FGF23 mRNA levels showed high sensitivity and specificity for CS. Additionally, significantly increased levels of FGF23, FGFr3, OPN, impaired osteogenic mineralization and lower TNAP levels were observed in CS-Ob. Moreover, FGF23 overexpression in CT-Ob increased FGFr3 and OPN levels and decreased TNAP levels, while FGF23 knockdown induced downregulation of FGFr3 and OPN but upregulation of TNAP in CS-Ob. Mineralization of CS-Ob was rescued after FGF23 knockdown.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggested increased peripheral blood FGF23 levels, decreased bone mineral density in CS patients, and a good predictive ability of CS by peripheral blood FGF23 levels. FGF23 may contribute to osteopenia in CS patients through FGFr3/TNAP / OPN pathway.

The Relationship between the Hounsfield Units Value of the Upper Instrumented Vertebra and the Severity of Proximal Junctional Fracture after Adult Spinal Deformity Surgery

Background and Objectives: In this retrospective cohort study, we investigate associations between the Hounsfield units (HU) value of upper instrumented vertebra (UIV) and proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) after adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery. Materials and Methods: The cohort consisted of 60 patients (mean age 71.7 years) who underwent long instrumented fusion surgery (≥6 vertebrae) for ASD with at least 1 year of follow-up. The preoperative bone mineral density (BMD) measured on DXA scans, the HU values at UIV and UIV+1, and the radiographic parameters were compared between the PJK and non-PJK groups. The severity of UIV fracture was assessed using a semiquantitative (SQ) grade. Results: PJK occurred in 43% of patients. No significant differences in patient age, sex, BMD, and preoperative radiographic parameters were observed between the PJK and non-PJK groups. The HU values of the UIV (103.4 vs. 149.0, p < 0.001) and UIV+1 (102.0 vs. 145.7, p < 0.001) were significantly lower in the PJK group. The cutoff values of HU at UIV and UIV+1 were 122.8 and 114.9, respectively. Lower HU values at UIV (Grade 1: 134.2, Grade 2: 109.6, Grade 3: 81.1, p < 0.001) and UIV+1 (Grade 1: 131.5, Grade 2: 107.1, Grade 3: 82.1, p < 0.001) were associated with severe SQ grade. Conclusions: Lower HU values at UIV and UIV+1 had a negative impact on signal incidence of PJK and were correlated with the severity of UIV fractures. Preoperative treatment of osteoporosis seems necessary for preoperative UIV HU values less than 120.

Use of MRI-based vertebral bone quality score (VBQ) of S1 body in bone mineral density assessment for patients with lumbar degenerative diseases

PURPOSE

To evaluate the use of the modified and simplified vertebral bone quality (VBQ) method based on T1-weighted MRI images of S1 vertebrae in assessing bone mineral density (BMD) for patients with lumbar degenerative diseases.

METHODS

We reviewed the preoperative data of patients with lumbar degenerative diseases undergoing lumbar spine surgery between January 2019 and June 2022 with available non-contrast T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT) images and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). S1 vertebral bone quality scores (S1 VBQ) and S1 CT Hounsfield units were measured with picture archiving and communication system (PACS). One-way ANOVA was applied to present the discrepancy between the S1 VBQ of patients with normal bone density (T-score ≥ - 1.0), osteopenia (- 2.5 < T-score < - 1.0) and osteoporosis (T-score ≤ - 2.5). The receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) was drawn to analyze the diagnostic performance of S1 VBQ in distinguishing low BMD. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

RESULTS

A total of 207 patients were included. The S1 VBQ were significantly different between groups (p < 0.001). Interclass correlation coefficient for inter-rater reliability was 0.86 (95% CI 0.78-0.94) and 0.94(95% CI 0.89-0.98) for intra-rater reliability. According to the linear regression analysis, the S1 VBQ has moderate-to-strong correlations with DEXA T-score (r = - 0.48, p < 0.001). The area under the ROC curve indicated a predictive accuracy of 82%. A sensitivity of 77.25% with a specificity of 70% could be achieved for distinguishing low BMD by setting the S1 VBQ cutoff as 2.93.

CONCLUSIONS

The S1 VBQ was a promising tool in distinguishing poor bone quality in patients with lumbar degenerative diseases, especially in cases where the previously reported VBQ method based on L1-L4 was not available. S1 VBQ score could be useful as opportunistic assessment for screening and complementary evaluation to DEXA T-score before surgery.

Medical optimization of osteoporosis for adult spinal deformity surgery: a state-of-the-art evidence-based review of current pharmacotherapy

PURPOSE

Osteoporosis is a common, but challenging phenomenon to overcome in adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery. Several pharmacological agents are at the surgeon's disposal to optimize the osteoporotic patient prior to undergoing extensive reconstruction. Familiarity with these medications will allow the surgeon to make informed decisions on selecting the most appropriate adjuncts for each individual patient.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature review was conducted in PubMed from September 2021 to April 2022. Studies were selected that contained combinations of various terms including osteoporosis, specific medications, spine surgery, fusion, cage subsidence, screw loosening, pull-out, junctional kyphosis/failure.

RESULTS

Bisphosphonates, denosumab, selective estrogen receptor modulators, teriparatide, abaloparatide and romosozumab are all pharmacological agents currently available for adjunctive use. While these medications have been shown to have beneficial effects on improving bone mineral density in the osteoporotic patient, varying evidence is available on their specific effects in the context of extensive spine surgery. There is still a lack of human studies with use of the newer agents.

CONCLUSION

Bisphosphonates are first-line agents due to their low cost and robust evidence behind their utility. However, in the absence of contraindications, optimizing bone quality with anabolic medications should be strongly considered in preparation for spinal deformity surgeries due to their beneficial and favorable effects on fusion and hardware compared to the anti-resorptive medications.

Effect of degeneration on bone mineral density, trabecular bone score and CT Hounsfield unit measurements in a spine surgery patient population

This study investigated the impact of spinal degeneration on bone mineral density (BMD), trabecular bone score (TBS), and CT Hounsfield units in an at-risk population. We found that BMD was increased by degeneration, whereas TBS and HU were unaffected. These findings support that TBS is not adversely affected by spinal degeneration.

INTRODUCTION

This study evaluated the impact of spinal degeneration on BMD and TBS measured by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and on CT HU in a spine surgery patient population.

METHODS

A retrospective study of 63 patients referred for consideration of spine surgery or with history of spine surgery was performed. Patients were included if a DXA scan and a CT containing the lumbar spine were obtained within 18 months of each other. DXA data were collected and analyzed by vertebral level. Individual vertebrae were assessed for degenerative changes by qualitative evaluation of the anterior and posterior elements using CT. Degeneration scores were compared to BMD T-scores, TBS and CT HU at individual vertebral levels L1-4, and after applying International Society for Clinical Densitometry (ISCD) criteria for excluding vertebrae from diagnostic consideration.

RESULTS

Mean patient age and BMI were 67.2 years and 27.8 kg/m², respectively; 79.4% were female. Mean (SD) lowest T-scores of the hip, spine, and lowest overall T-score were - 1.3 (1.4), - 1.7 (0.9), and - 1.9 (1.0), respectively. Osteoporosis was present by T-score in 38% and osteopenia in 52%; 10% had a history of osteoporotic fracture. The mean degeneration score of individual vertebrae was 4.1 on a 0-6 scale. T-score correlated moderately with degeneration score (Spearman's rho 0.484, p < 0.001), whereas TBS and HU were unrelated. ISCD excluded vertebrae had a higher degeneration score than included vertebrae (p =  < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

In a spine surgery population, TBS and CT HU values are unrelated to degeneration score and thus appear unaffected by lumbar vertebral degenerative changes. Additionally, these data support the ISCD criteria for vertebral exclusion.

Do we underdiagnose osteoporosis in patients with pyogenic spondylodiscitis?

OBJECTIVE

Pyogenic spondylodiscitis affects a fragile patient population. Surgical treatment in cases of instability entails instrumentation, and loosening of this instrumentation is a frequent occurrence in pyogenic spondylodiscitis. The authors therefore attempted to investigate whether low bone mineral density (BMD)—which is compatible with the diagnosis of osteoporosis—is underdiagnosed in patients with pyogenic spondylodiscitis. How osteoporosis was treated and how it affected implant stability were further analyzed.

METHODS

Charts of patients who underwent operations for pyogenic spondylodiscitis were retrospectively reviewed for clinical data, prior medical history of osteoporosis, and preoperative CT scans of the thoracolumbar spine. In accordance with a previously validated high-fidelity opportunistic CT assessment, average Hounsfield units (HUs) in vertebral bodies of L1 and L4 were measured. Based on the validation study, the authors opted for a conservative cutoff value for low BMD, being compatible with osteoporosis ≤ 110 HUs. Baseline and outcome variables, including implant failure and osteoporosis interventions, were entered into a multivariate logistic model for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

Of 200 consecutive patients who underwent fusion surgery for pyogenic spondylodiscitis, 64% (n = 127) were male and 66% (n = 132) were older than 65 years. Seven percent (n = 14) had previously been diagnosed with osteoporosis. The attenuation analysis revealed HU values compatible with osteoporosis in 48% (95/200). The need for subsequent revision surgery due to implant failure showed a trend toward an association with estimated low BMD (OR 2.11, 95% CI 0.95–4.68, p = 0.067). Estimated low BMD was associated with subsequent implant loosening (p < 0.001). Only 5% of the patients with estimated low BMD received a diagnosis and pharmacological treatment of osteoporosis within 1 year after spinal instrumentation.

CONCLUSIONS

Relying on past medical history of osteoporosis is insufficient in the management of patients with pyogenic spondylodiscitis. This is the first study to identify a substantially missed opportunity to detect osteoporosis and to start pharmacological treatment after surgery for prevention of implant failure. The authors advocate for routine opportunistic CT evaluation for a better estimation of bone quality to initiate diagnosis and treatment for osteoporosis in these patients.

Bone density of first and second segments of normal and dysmorphic sacra

Background

Iliosacral screw fixation is safe and effective but can be complicated by loss of fixation, particularly in patients with osteopenic bone. Sacral morphology dictates where iliosacral screws may be placed when stabilizing pelvic ring injuries. In dysmorphic sacra, the safe osseous corridor of the upper sacral segment (S1) is smaller and lacks a transsacral corridor, increasing the need for fixation in the second sacral segment (S2). Previous evidence suggests that S2 is less dense than S1. The aim of this cross-sectional study is to further evaluate bone mineral density (BMD) of the S1 and S2 iliosacral osseous pathways through morphology stratification into normal and dysmorphic sacra.

Materials and methods

Pelvic computed tomography scans of 50 consecutive trauma patients, aged 18 to 50 years, from a level 1 trauma center were analyzed prospectively. Five radiographic features (upper sacral segment not recessed in the pelvis, mammillary bodies, acute alar slope, residual S1 disk, and misshapen sacral foramen) were used to identify dysmorphic characteristics, and sacra with four or five features were classified as dysmorphic. Hounsfield unit values were used to estimate the regional BMD of S1 and S2. Student’s t-test was utilized to compare the mean values at each segment, with statistical significance being set at p < 0.05. No change in clinical management occurred as a result of inclusion in this study.

Results

A statistical difference in BMD was appreciated between S1 and S2 in both normal and dysmorphic sacra (p < 0.0001), with 28.4% lower density in S2 than S1. Further, S1 in dysmorphic sacra tended to be 4% less dense than S1 in normal sacra (p = 0.047). No difference in density was appreciated at S2 based on morphology.

Conclusions

Our results would indicate that, based on BMD alone, fixation should be maximized in S1 prior to fixation in S2. In cases where S2 fixation is required, we recommend that transsacral fixation should be strongly considered if possible to bypass the S2 body and achieve fixation in the cortical bone of the ilium and sacrum.

Level of evidence

Level III.

Computed tomography Hounsfield unit-based prediction of pedicle screw loosening after surgery for degenerative lumbar spine disease

OBJECTIVE

The authors investigated the relation between Hounsfield unit (HU) values measured on CT and the risk of pedicle screw loosening in patients who underwent lumbar pedicle screw fixation for degenerative lumbar spine disease.

METHODS

Patients who were treated with lumbar pedicle screw fixation between July 2011 and December 2015 at the authors' department were reviewed. Age, sex, BMI, smoking and diabetes histories, range of fixation, and fusion method were recorded as the basic patient information. The HU values for lumbar bone mineral density (BMD) for the L1, L2, L3, and L4 vertebra were measured on CT scans. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify the independent influencing factors of pedicle screw loosening.

RESULTS

A total of 503 patients were included in the final analysis. The pedicle screw loosening rate at the 12-month follow-up was 30.0% (151 of 503 patients). There were no significant differences in sex, BMI, or histories of smoking and diabetes between the patients with (loosening group) and those without (nonloosening group) screw loosening (p > 0.05). The mean HU value of L1-4 was lower in the loosening group than the nonloosening group (106.3 ± 33.9 vs 132.6 ± 42.9, p < 0.001). In logistic regression analysis, being male (OR 2.065; 95% CI 1.242-3.433), HU value (OR 0.977; 95% CI 0.970-0.985), length of fixation (OR 3.616; 95% CI 2.617-4.996), and fixation to S1 (OR 1.699; 95% CI 1.039-2.777) were the independent influencing factors for screw loosening.

CONCLUSIONS

HU value measured on CT was an independent predictor for pedicle screw loosening, and lower HU value was significantly correlated with higher risk of screw loosening.