Our Summary

The research paper is about a study that looked at the rate of patients needing a second surgery after undergoing a specific type of back surgery known as lumbar fusion surgery. This surgery is often performed on people with degenerative lumbar diseases. The researchers used data from a national health insurance database in Korea to find patients who had this surgery between 2011 and 2016. They then looked at whether these patients needed a second surgery, and if there were any factors that made this more likely. The study found that there was no difference in the rates of repeat surgery between different types of lumbar fusion procedures. However, they did find that older age, being male, and the type of hospital where the surgery was performed, were associated with a higher chance of needing a second surgery. The method used for the fusion surgery did not impact the likelihood of needing a second surgery.

FAQs

  1. What is the main focus of the research paper on lumbar fusion surgery?
  2. What factors were found to increase the likelihood of needing a second lumbar fusion surgery?
  3. Did the study find any difference in rates of repeat surgery between different types of lumbar fusion procedures?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about lumbar fusion is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully, including proper wound care, physical therapy exercises, and avoiding activities that could strain the back. It is also important to maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle to support the healing process and reduce the risk of complications or the need for additional surgeries. Additionally, regular follow-up appointments with your doctor are important to monitor progress and address any concerns.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended lumbar fusion surgery include those with degenerative lumbar diseases such as degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, and disc herniation. These patients may have tried conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medication, and injections without success, and are experiencing persistent pain, weakness, and/or numbness in the lower back and legs. Additionally, patients with instability in the spine, such as those with spinal fractures or deformities, may also be recommended for lumbar fusion surgery. Older patients, male patients, and those undergoing surgery at certain types of hospitals may be at a higher risk for needing a second surgery after lumbar fusion.

Timeline

Before lumbar fusion surgery:

  1. Patient experiences chronic low back pain, leg pain, or other symptoms associated with degenerative lumbar diseases.
  2. Patient undergoes diagnostic tests such as X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans to determine the extent of the spinal damage.
  3. Patient consults with a spine surgeon to discuss treatment options, including the possibility of lumbar fusion surgery.
  4. Patient undergoes pre-operative evaluations and tests to ensure they are a candidate for surgery.
  5. Surgery is scheduled and patient prepares for the procedure.

After lumbar fusion surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes the surgical procedure to fuse the affected vertebrae in the lumbar spine.
  2. Patient is monitored closely in the hospital for complications and pain management.
  3. Patient begins physical therapy and rehabilitation to regain strength and mobility.
  4. Patient is discharged from the hospital and continues recovery at home.
  5. Patient follows up with their surgeon for post-operative appointments to monitor healing and address any concerns.
  6. Patient gradually resumes normal activities and may experience improvements in symptoms over time.
  7. Patient may require additional treatments or surgeries if complications arise or if the initial fusion does not successfully alleviate symptoms.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is lumbar fusion surgery and why is it recommended for my condition?

  2. What are the potential risks and complications of lumbar fusion surgery?

  3. How long is the recovery process after lumbar fusion surgery and what can I expect in terms of pain management and rehabilitation?

  4. Are there any alternative treatment options to lumbar fusion surgery that I should consider?

  5. What factors may increase the likelihood of needing a second surgery after lumbar fusion?

  6. How can I minimize the risk of needing a second surgery after lumbar fusion?

  7. What is the success rate of lumbar fusion surgery in terms of relieving pain and improving function?

  8. How experienced are you in performing lumbar fusion surgery and what is your success rate with this procedure?

  9. What type of follow-up care will be needed after lumbar fusion surgery?

  10. How long do the results of lumbar fusion surgery typically last and what are the chances of needing additional surgeries in the future?

Reference

Authors: Park MS, Ju YS, Moon SH, Kim TH, Oh JK, Lim JK, Kim CH, Chung CK, Chang HG. Journal: Sci Rep. 2019 Mar 20;9(1):4926. doi: 10.1038/s41598-019-41366-z. PMID: 30894618