The study authors investigated 91 patients who underwent spinal fusion for DDD between 2010 and 2016. The patients had prognostic tests including discography, pantaloons cast test, Modic changes and a summary of physical symptoms to determine the need for surgery. The study authors found:
1. Three prognostic tests were of “no value for predicting outcome scores”:
• Discography
• Modic changes
• Loading factor
2. Improved outcomes in back pain severity was associated with a positive pantaloons cast test in patients without prior surgery; the same wasn’t true in patients with prior surgery.
3. Factors predicting consistent back pain reduction include female sex and no prior operations at the index level. None of the other sociodemographic factors were predictive of value, according to the study abstract.
More articles on spine surgery:
5 key findings on lumbar discectomy revision rates
4 key points on posterior lumbar fusion complication rates
Spine biologics market to make it big in the near future
At the Becker's 23rd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference, taking place June 11-13 in Chicago, spine surgeons, orthopedic leaders and ASC executives will come together to explore minimally invasive techniques, ASC growth strategies and innovations shaping the future of outpatient spine care. Apply for complimentary registration now.
