Osteoporosis in Acute Spinal Cord Injury

Abstract

In patients with spinal cord injury (SCI), significant bone loss with subsequent osteoporosis is associated with severe complications, such as pathologic fractures, nephrolithiasis, and heterotopic ossification. The recognition of the potential for bone loss and the prevention of osteoporosis have become important in the care of patients with SCI. In this review article, the main focus is on bone loss in acute SCI. Bone-related metabolic changes and osteoporosis after acute SCI are summarized, mechanism(s) for development of the osteoporosis are explored, and the current concepts for prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in acute SCI are provided.