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Postoperative recommendations for single-level lumbar disc herniation: a cross-section survey.
Osvaldo Sousa1,2, Francisca Dos Santos Coelho3, Paulo Pereira1,2
1Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Alameda Professor Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319, Porto, Portugal.
Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery
|March 3, 2023
Summary
Spine surgeons generally recommend returning to sedentary work within 4 weeks after surgery for degenerative disc disease. Recommendations for physical activities and return to work vary based on workload intensity, with no significant differences based on surgeon experience.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Neurosurgery
- Spine Surgery
Background:
- Lumbar degenerative disc disease is a primary cause of low back and leg pain.
- While conservative treatments are common, some patients require surgery.
- Limited literature exists on postoperative return-to-work recommendations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess spine surgeons' consensus on postoperative recommendations.
- Focus areas include return to work, daily activities, pain management, and rehabilitation.
- To address the sparse literature on postoperative guidance.
Main Methods:
- An online survey was distributed to 243 spine surgery experts in January 2022.
- The survey was disseminated through Portuguese spine pathology and neurosurgery societies.
- Fifty-nine surgeons, primarily in neurosurgery, participated.
Main Results:
- Nearly 68% of surgeons recommend a return to sedentary work by the 4th postoperative week.
- Recommendations for light and heavy workload return are longer.
- Low-impact activities can resume within 4 weeks; high-impact activities require further postponement.
- Half of surgeons refer 10% or more patients to rehabilitation.
- No significant differences in recommendations were found between experienced and less experienced surgeons.
Conclusions:
- Portuguese surgical practice aligns with international experience and literature.
- There is a need for clearer guidelines in postoperative management.
- Surgeons provide varied recommendations based on activity type and workload intensity.
