Preoperative Teriparatide Use on Insertional Torque of Pedicle Screws for Lumbar Fusion Surgery

This study is evaluating whether taking teriparatide — a bone-building medication (PTH analog) — before spinal fusion surgery can improve the stability of pedicle screws in patients with osteoporosis. Pedicle screws are used to hold spinal vertebrae together during fusion, but in patients with weak bones, these screws may not grip as firmly. Pre-treating with teriparatide may strengthen the bone and improve surgical outcomes. You may be eligible if: - You have osteoporosis (confirmed by DEXA scan showing bone density more than 2.5 SD below normal, or a history of vertebral/femoral fracture) - You are scheduled for lumbar spinal fusion surgery - You are between 40 and 100 years old You may NOT be eligible if: - You have Paget's disease of bone - You have elevated blood calcium or alkaline phosphatase levels - You have had prior radiation treatment or fusion surgery on your lumbar spine - You have bone tumors or metabolic bone disease other than osteoporosis - You have a known hypersensitivity (allergy) to teriparatide Talk to your spine surgeon and endocrinologist about whether pre-operative teriparatide treatment is appropriate for your osteoporosis-related spinal surgery.