Personal and physical factors affecting the decision of patients to opt for spinal surgery: a case-control study

ConclusionThe results of this study showed that besides physical factors such as pain radiation and disability level, which influenced the decision of patients to take the surgical option, patients who were unemployed were also more likely to choose surgery. This indicates that patients were worried about the possible impact of surgery on their employment, or on their ability to continue to work. It is important that patients be given a clear picture of the expected outcomes of their surgery, and that the information needs of patients regarding the surgery be explored and addressed.
Source: International Journal of Orthopaedic and Trauma Nursing - Category: Nursing Source Type: research