Predictors of an unfavorable outcome 1.5 and 12 years after a first, uncomplicated lumbar disc surgery

Karin Pieber, Nora Salomon, Silke Inschlag, Gabriele Amtmann, Karl-Ludwig Resch, Gerold Ebenbichler

October 2016, Volume 25, Issue 11, pp 3520 - 3527 Original Article Read Full Article

First Online: 15 July 2016

Purpose

To identify predictors of both intermediate and long-term unfavorable outcomes after first time, uncomplicated lumbar disc surgery.

Methods

Patients (n = 120) who had undergone lumbar disc surgery were followed up 1.5 and 12 years thereafter. Baseline assessments were carried out 5–8 days after surgery. Clinical outcome was assessed in both follow-ups using the Low Back Pain Rating Scale. Statistical analysis included binary logistic and linear regression.

Results

Unfavorable outcomes were found in 50.5 % (1.5 years) and 52.6 % (12 years) of patients available for follow-up examination. Low pre-operative physical activity and severe pain in the first week after surgery were predictive of an unfavorable post-operative outcome at both follow-ups.

Conclusions

Identified predictors suggest that particular emphasis should put on comprehensive post-operative care at large and encouragement to adapt a physically active lifestyle in particular in rehabilitation concepts after first time uncomplicated lumbar disc surgery.

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