Vitamin D Supplementation and Spinal Fusion Success:A Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Poor bone mineralization and various musculoskeletal disorders have been linked to Vitamin D deficiency, especially osteoporosis and fractures.^1,2 Recently, interest has grown in the potential effects of vitamin D on spinal fusion outcomes; however, clinical evidence supporting its benefit remains inconclusive.

Objective: This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the effect of vitamin D supplementation on spinal fusion success rates in patients undergoing spinal fusion surgery.

Methods: We conducted a systematic literature search in PubMed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Eligible studies included randomized controlled trials and prospective and retrospective cohort studies reporting spinal fusion outcomes in patients receiving vitamin D supplementation.³ Results: Three studies met the inclusion criteria, including one randomized controlled trial and two prospective cohort studies, involving 270 patients (170 in the vitamin D group and 100 in the control group). Pooled analysis demonstrated no statistically significant difference in fusion success between groups (risk ratio = 1.01; 95% CI = 0.72–1.41; p > 0.05). We observed high heterogeneity (I² = 89%), and risk of bias ranged from low to moderate across studies.