Here are eight things for spinal surgeons to know for April 24, 2014.
Hospital codes don't always match surgeon diagnosis for spine surgery
A team of researchers recently examined ICD-9-CM discharge codes in the Nationwide Inpatient Sample to compare hospital medical coder-assigned codes to the surgeon diagnosis. The team found "significant discrepancies" between the surgeon diagnosis and discharge codes.
Global neurostimulation device market to reach $4.1 billion by 2018
The global neurostimulation device market is expected to grow to nearly $4.1 billion by 2018, according to a recently released report by BCC Research. The largest segment in the overall market is the chronic pain category, which is projected to reach $2.8 billion by 2018.
Dr. Thomas Ellis performs spine surgery on Texas Senator Wendy Davis
Thomas Ellis, MD, a surgeon with Fort Worth Brain and Spine Institute, performed anterior cervical discectomy and fusion on Texas state senator and gubernatorial candidate Wendy Davis. Ms. Davis plans to return to her normal campaign schedule over the next few weeks.
Cervical spinal fusion with rhBMP is associated with complications
Of the 1 million patients from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample database who underwent cervical spinal fusion from 2003 to 2010, there were 7.96 percent who received rhBMP. The researchers found rhBMP was a significant predictor of complications, including dysphagia.
RTI Surgical launches Streamline OCT System
The system is intended to promote fusion of the occipto-cervico-thoracic spine. It can be used in the treatment of spinal stenosis, tumors, degenerative disc disease and spondylolisthesis, among other conditions.
No difference between allograft/autograft fusion scores
The study author examined 25 patients who underwent one- to three-level lumbar fusions. Allograft plus autologous bone marrow concentrate was used on half of the spine and autologous iliac crest bone was used on the other half, showing no substantial difference.
NASS defends choosing wisely campaign
The North American Spine Society participates in the Advancing Medical Professionalism to Improve Health Care Foundation's "Choosing Wisely" campaign, which was recently criticized in a Kaiser Health News report. In a blog report, the organization defends the campaign, designed to encourage active discussion between physicians and patients about appropriate care.
28% of orthopedic surgeons currently, plan to participate in ACOs
Around 18 percent of orthopedic surgeons are currently participating in accountable care organizations and another 10 percent plan to join one this year, according to the Medscape Orthopedist Compensation Report 2014.
More Articles on Spine:
Hospital for Special Surgery Names Dr. Todd Albert Surgeon-in-Chief
Costs for SI Joint Disruption, Sacroiliitis About $270M Over 5 Years
The Robotic Difference: How New Technology Could Impact Spine