Management of adult spine deformity in the elderly

Adult spinal deformity represents a growing problem in the elderly population (age 60 or older). A comprehensive examination, including imaging, is critical for guiding treatment. For most, non-operative management represents the initial treatment modality; however, few studies support its clinical utility. The decision to pursue surgery requires comprehensive preoperative evaluation, given the increased risk of surgical complications seen in elderly patients. Despite the increased risk of complications, patients treated surgically demonstrate significant improvement in clinical and radiographic parameters. This paper will review literature evaluating non-operative and operative management of adult spinal deformity in the elderly patient.