Comparison of Patient Preference, Understanding, and Sentiment for Minimally Invasive Versus Open Spine Surgery

Study Design.

Retrospective questionnaire analysis.

Objective.

The goal of this study was to analyze patients’ understanding and preferences for minimally invasive spine (MIS) versus open spine surgery.

Summary of Background Data.

MIS surgery is increasing in prevalence. However, there is insufficient literature to evaluate how the availability of MIS surgery influences the patients’ decision-making process and perceptions of spine procedures.

Methods.

A survey was administered to patients who received a microdiscectomy or transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion between 2016 and 2020. All eligible patients were stratified into two cohorts based on the use of minimally invasive techniques. Each cohort was administered a survey that evaluated patient preferences, perceptions, and understanding of their surgery.

Results.

One hundred fifty two patients completed surveys (MIS: 88, Open: 64). There was no difference in time from surgery to survey (MIS: 2.1 ± 1.4 yrs, Open: 1.9 ± 1.4 yrs; P = 0.36) or sex (MIS: 56.8% male, Open: 53.1% male; P = 0.65). The MIS group was younger (MIS: 53.0 ± 16.9 yrs, Open: 58.2 ± 14.6 yrs; P = 0.05). More MIS patients reported that their technique influenced their surgeon choice (MIS: 64.0%, Open: 37.5%; P 

Source: Spine - February 1, 2022 Category: Orthopaedics Tags: SURGERY Source Type: research