Clinical outcomes after single-level posterior lumbar interbody fusion in osteoporotic patients with or without paraspinal muscle atrophy: a retrospective study - Report - MDSpire

Clinical outcomes after single-level posterior lumbar interbody fusion in osteoporotic patients with or without paraspinal muscle atrophy: a retrospective study

  • By

  • Yifang Shi

  • Jialin Wang

  • Zongmian Song

  • Miaoheng Yan

  • Longyu Li

  • Hao Han

  • Hongjian Liu

  • Songfeng Chen

  • June 23, 2026

  • 0 min

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Outcomes of Single-Level Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion in Osteoporotic Patients

Overview

This study evaluates the impact of paraspinal muscle atrophy (PMA) on postoperative outcomes in osteoporotic patients undergoing posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) for lumbar disc herniation (LDH). Findings indicate that patients with concomitant PMA experience poorer recovery and worse functional outcomes compared to those without PMA.

Background

Lumbar disc herniation is a prevalent cause of low back pain and disability, particularly in aging populations. Osteoporosis can complicate surgical outcomes in patients undergoing PLIF due to impaired bone quality. Additionally, the role of paraspinal muscle condition, specifically atrophy, in influencing recovery post-surgery has gained attention, necessitating further investigation into its prognostic value.

Data Highlights

GroupFCSAFI%VAS ScoresODI ImprovementSF-36 Bodily PainSF-36 Physical Function
OPHigherLowerLowerGreaterHigherHigher
OP + PMALowerHigherHigherSmallerLowerLower

Key Findings

  • The OP + PMA group showed significantly greater paraspinal muscle degeneration.
  • Patients with PMA had persistently higher VAS scores throughout follow-up.
  • Worse ODI scores were observed at 6 and 12 months in the OP + PMA group.
  • Improvements in SF-36 scores were significantly smaller in the OP + PMA group compared to the OP group.
  • Both groups improved post-surgery, but the OP + PMA group had poorer functional prognosis.

Clinical Implications

The presence of paraspinal muscle atrophy in osteoporotic patients undergoing PLIF may indicate a need for tailored postoperative care and rehabilitation strategies. Clinicians should consider assessing muscle quality as part of preoperative evaluations to better predict recovery outcomes.

Conclusion

Concomitant paraspinal muscle atrophy is associated with poorer postoperative recovery in osteoporotic patients undergoing PLIF, highlighting the importance of evaluating both bone and muscle health in surgical planning.

Related Resources & Content

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  5. Author(s)/Org, Source, Year -- Title
  6. Author(s)/Org, Source, Year -- Title
  7. AO Spine Clinical Practice Recommendations: Evaluation, Implications and Management of Osteoporosis in Adult Spinal Deformity
  8. Antiosteoporosis medication in patients with posterior spine fusion: a systematic review and meta-analysis - ScienceDirect
  9. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-13217-7.pdf

Original Source(s)

Clinical outcomes after single-level posterior lumbar interbody fusion in osteoporotic patients with or without paraspinal muscle atrophy: a retrospective study

  • by Yifang Shi, Jialin Wang, Zongmian Song, Miaoheng Yan, Longyu Li, Hao Han, Hongjian Liu, Songfeng Chen

  • June 23, 2026

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