Search

Bone health after lung transplantation has not been comprehensively reviewed in over two decades. This narrative review summarizes available literature on bone health in the context of lung transplantation, including epidemiology, presentation and post-operative management. Osteoporosis is reported in approximately 30-50% of lung transplant candidates, largely due to disease-related impact on bone and lifestyle, and corticosteroid-related effects during end-stage lung disease (interstitial lung diseases, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and historically cystic fibrosis). After lung transplantation, many patients experience steroid-induced bone loss, followed by stabilization or recovery to baseline levels with pharmacological management. Although evidence on fracture incidence is limited, fracture risk appears to increase in the year following transplantation, with common fracture sites including the vertebrae and the ribs. Vertebral and rib fractures restrict chest expansion and affect lung function, underscoring the importance of fracture prevention in lung transplant recipients. There is limited evidence on pharmacological management of osteoporosis after lung transplantation. Existing randomized controlled trials have focused on parenteral bisphosphonates and calcitriol, but have been underpowered to evaluate their effect on fracture outcomes. Resistance training, particularly in conjunction with antiresorptive therapy, has also been shown to improve bone health when initiated two months after transplantation. No studies to date have documented effectiveness of denosumab in lung transplant recipients; more studies on pharmacotherapy are warranted to elucidate optimal medical management. Considering high osteoporosis prevalence and high fracture risk in lung transplant populations, development of formal guidance is warranted to promote improved management after transplantation., (Copyright © 2025. Published by Elsevier Inc.)