Postoperative bracing after spine surgery for degenerative conditions: a questionnaire study

Area of Science:

• Spine surgery
• Orthopedic surgery
• Neurosurgery

Background:

• Postoperative spinal bracing is common but lacks robust efficacy data.
• Indications for spinal orthoses after surgery are not well-defined.
• Internal fixation use is increasing, necessitating clarity on bracing protocols.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate current postoperative bracing practices among spine surgeons.
• To understand surgeon preferences for orthosis type and duration.
• To identify the rationale behind postoperative bracing decisions.

Main Methods:

• A questionnaire-based study surveyed spine surgeons at a conference.
• Data collected included bracing frequency, orthosis type, and duration.
• Surgeons' practices were analyzed based on fellowship training, practice type, and experience.

Main Results:

• 83% of surveyed surgeons use postoperative bracing.
• Fellowship-trained surgeons showed higher bracing rates (61% vs. 46%).
• Bracing was more frequent after cervical procedures and with increased anterior cervical construct complexity.

Conclusions:

• A significant lack of consensus exists regarding spinal bracing protocols.
• Most surgeons utilize orthoses, but indications and duration vary widely.
• Prospective studies are recommended to establish evidence-based bracing guidelines.