Ask VialBase
Retrospective cohort (TriNetX database) · PMID 41938705

Impact of GLP-1RA Use on Perioperative Clinical Outcomes of Posterior Cervical Spinal Fusion — VialBase Research

737 GLP-1RA patients vs 18,882 controls undergoing posterior cervical fusion

Last updated · 2026 · Multiple authors · North American Spine Society Journal
Key findings
  • 737 GLP-1RA patients vs 18,882 controls undergoing posterior cervical fusion
  • GLP-1RA use associated with reduced pseudoarthrosis (2.7% vs 5.2%, P=0.019)
  • Increased postoperative radiculopathy risk (HR 1.367, P=0.003)
  • No significant difference in mortality, infection, or implant failure

PMID 41938705 — GLP-1 RAs and Spinal Fusion Outcomes

Compound: Liraglutide Citation: N Am Spine Soc J. 2026. doi:10.1016/j.xnsj.2026.100873

Summary

Large retrospective database study using TriNetX Research Network examining GLP-1 RA effects on posterior cervical spinal fusion outcomes. Propensity score matched for preoperative characteristics.

Key Findings

  • Reduced pseudoarthrosis: GLP-1RA users had lower rates of non-union (2.7% vs 5.2%, P = 0.019), suggesting potential bone-healing benefit
  • Increased radiculopathy: Significantly elevated risk (HR 1.367, 95% CI 1.110-1.684, P = 0.003), possibly related to weight loss and spinal biomechanical changes
  • No difference: Mortality, infection, implant failure, myelopathy at 1-year follow-up

Clinical Significance

Mixed findings for perioperative GLP-1 RA use. The bone-healing benefit (reduced pseudoarthrosis) is a novel finding worth further study. The increased radiculopathy risk warrants awareness for surgical planning.

PubMed

See Also

View on PubMed · PMID 41938705 →