Frailty, bone health, and patient optimization are important aspects of spinal deformity care that focus on improving the overall well-being and outcomes of patients, particularly those at higher risk or with specific conditions.

Frailty: Frailty is a state of vulnerability, typically associated with aging, in which an individual becomes more susceptible to adverse health outcomes due to decreased physiological reserves and resilience. Frail individuals have reduced physical function, increased falls risk, longer recovery times, and are generally more prone to complications after surgery. Identifying and addressing frailty in patients is crucial to optimize their care and outcomes. This may involve regular assessments, nutritional interventions, physical activity programs, medication optimization, and coordinated care among multiple healthcare providers.

Bone health: Bone health refers to the strength and integrity of bones, which is important for maintaining an individual's mobility and reducing the risk of fractures especially after surgery. Proper bone health is achieved through a combination of factors, including adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, regular weight-bearing exercises, and avoidance of risk factors such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. For patients at risk of or diagnosed with conditions like osteoporosis, specific interventions such as medication to enhance bone density may be required.

Patient optimization: Patient optimization involves a comprehensive approach to prepare patients for surgery, especially those who may have underlying medical conditions or risk factors that could impact their surgical outcomes. The goal is to optimize the patient's overall health and well-being prior to surgery, reducing the risk of complications and improving recovery. This may include medical evaluations, management of chronic conditions, smoking cessation, nutritional support, physical therapy, and coordination with various healthcare professionals. The specific interventions and strategies employed will depend on the individual patient's needs and the planned surgical procedure.

It is essential for healthcare providers to consider these aspects of care to ensure the best possible outcomes for their patients. By addressing frailty, bone health, and optimizing patients preoperatively, healthcare teams can reduce the risk of complications, enhance recovery, and improve patients' quality of life.

RESOURCES

For additional research on Frailty, Bone Health, and Patient Optimization, visit https://issgf.org/researches