The study included 647 patients who underwent spine surgery for metastatic disease between 2002 and 2014. The researchers investigated complications within 30 days after surgery as well as re-operations until final follow-up.
Here are five observations:
1. Of the patients, 32 percent experienced a complication within 30 days.
2. These variables proved independently associated with 30-day complications:
• Lower albumin levels
• Additional comorbidities
• Pathologic fracture
• Three or more operated spine levels
• Combined surgical approach
3. After the initial surgery, 18 percent of the patients underwent at least one re-operation. The researchers found radiotherapy prior to the spinal tumor to be independently associated with re-operation.
4. Researchers found 30-day complications were associated with worse survival, but re-operation was not.
5. Researchers concluded: “Three or more spine levels operated upon and prior radiotherapy should prompt consideration of a pre-operative plastic surgery consultation regarding soft tissue coverage.” Additionally, providers should consider nutritional supplementation for patients with low preoperative serum albumin levels.
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