Our Summary

This study looks at how to improve recovery after spinal surgery. Despite advances in surgical techniques and technology, recovery from elective neurosurgery can still be associated with serious health issues. One approach to improving recovery is the use of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols. These are a series of steps taken before, during, and after surgery designed to optimize patient outcomes. While there is evidence suggesting that these protocols can improve recovery, they have not been widely used in neurosurgery.

The researchers aim to design a study to test the effectiveness of ERAS protocols in patients undergoing spinal surgery. Patients will be randomly assigned to either the ERAS protocol group or the standard care group. The ERAS group will receive interventions at different stages of their surgery that the standard care group will not.

The goal of this research is to provide data supporting the use of ERAS protocols in spinal surgery. It will also help inform the design of larger, multi-institutional studies. The researchers hope that the results will help reduce post-surgery health issues and improve patient outcomes and satisfaction.

FAQs

  1. What is the purpose of the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols in spinal surgery?
  2. What is the difference between the treatment received by the ERAS protocol group and the standard care group in the study?
  3. How will the research potentially benefit future spinal surgery patients and the design of future studies?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about spinal surgery is to follow the post-operative care instructions carefully. This may include taking prescribed medications, attending physical therapy sessions, avoiding certain activities, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle to support healing. It is important to communicate with your healthcare provider if you experience any concerning symptoms or have questions about your recovery process.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended for spinal surgery include those with severe back or neck pain, spinal stenosis, herniated discs, spinal deformities, spinal fractures, tumors in the spine, or other conditions that are causing compression of the spinal cord or nerves. These patients may have tried conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medication, or injections without success, and surgery may be recommended as a last resort to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.

Timeline

Before spinal surgery:

  • Patients will typically meet with their surgeon to discuss the procedure and potential risks and benefits
  • Pre-operative tests and evaluations may be performed to ensure the patient is in good health for surgery
  • Patients may be instructed to stop taking certain medications or to adjust their diet in preparation for surgery

During spinal surgery:

  • The patient will undergo the surgical procedure, which may involve the removal of damaged tissue, stabilization of the spine, or other corrective measures
  • Anesthesia will be administered to ensure the patient is comfortable and pain-free during the procedure
  • The surgery may last several hours, depending on the complexity of the case

After spinal surgery:

  • Patients will be monitored closely in the recovery room to ensure they are stable and recovering well from the surgery
  • Pain management techniques will be used to help alleviate discomfort and promote healing
  • Physical therapy and rehabilitation may be recommended to help the patient regain strength and mobility in the affected area
  • Follow-up appointments with the surgeon will be scheduled to monitor progress and address any concerns or complications that may arise

Overall, the recovery process after spinal surgery can vary depending on the individual patient and the specific procedure performed. By implementing ERAS protocols, researchers hope to improve outcomes and reduce complications associated with spinal surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific steps are included in the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocol for spinal surgery?
  2. How will following the ERAS protocol impact my recovery time and overall outcome?
  3. Are there any potential risks or complications associated with implementing the ERAS protocol for spinal surgery?
  4. How does the ERAS protocol differ from standard care for spinal surgery?
  5. Will following the ERAS protocol require any lifestyle changes or modifications before or after surgery?
  6. How will pain management be addressed during and after surgery if I follow the ERAS protocol?
  7. Will I have access to a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals to support me in following the ERAS protocol?
  8. How will my progress be monitored and evaluated if I follow the ERAS protocol for spinal surgery?
  9. What are the expected benefits of following the ERAS protocol for spinal surgery compared to traditional care?
  10. Are there any additional resources or support available to help me successfully follow the ERAS protocol for spinal surgery?

Reference

Authors: Ali ZS, Ma TS, Ozturk AK, Malhotra NR, Schuster JM, Marcotte PJ, Grady MS, Welch WC. Journal: Clin Neurol Neurosurg. 2018 Jan;164:142-153. doi: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2017.12.003. Epub 2017 Dec 8. PMID: 29232645