Spine surgeon experience makes a difference when performing scoliosis correction surgery, according to a report published in AAOS Now.
A study of 165 patients who underwent posterior-only procedure assessed whether the experience of the surgeon made an impact on the surgical outcome. The patients underwent surgery performed by a young surgeon with less than five years of experience or an experienced surgeon who had five or more years of experience.
The study found that surgeons with less than five years of experience reported significantly higher blood loss (2,042 mL vs. 1,013 mL), longer surgery times (458 minutes vs. 265 minutes) and lower SRS-22 scores (4.1 vs. 4.5), according to the report. When the surgery was performed by an experienced surgeon, patients were more likely to meet the discharge criteria faster, but there was no difference in complication rate or outcomes.
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The study found that surgeons with less than five years of experience reported significantly higher blood loss (2,042 mL vs. 1,013 mL), longer surgery times (458 minutes vs. 265 minutes) and lower SRS-22 scores (4.1 vs. 4.5), according to the report. When the surgery was performed by an experienced surgeon, patients were more likely to meet the discharge criteria faster, but there was no difference in complication rate or outcomes.
Related Articles on Spine Surgery:
Spinal Fusions Increased 137% in 10 Years
5 Things to Know About Artificial Disc Replacement
NASS Next Year: Dr. Michael Heggeness on Goals & Challenges for 2012