Analyzing Large Language Models' Responses to Common Lumbar Spine Fusion Surgery Questions: A Comparison Between ChatGPT and Bard.

OBJECTIVE: In the digital age, patients turn to online sources for lumbar spine fusion information, necessitating a careful study of large language models (LLMs) like chat generative pre-trained transformer (ChatGPT) for patient education. METHODS: Our study aims to assess the response quality of Open AI (artificial intelligence)'s ChatGPT 3.5 and Google's Bard to patient questions on lumbar spine fusion surgery. We identified 10 critical questions from 158 frequently asked ones via Google search, which were then presented to both chatbots. Five blinded spine surgeons rated the responses on a 4-point scale from 'unsatisfactory' to 'excellent.' The clarity and professionalism of the answers were also evaluated using a 5-point Likert scale. RESULTS: In our evaluation of 10 questions across ChatGPT 3.5 and Bard, 97% of responses were rated as excellent or satisfactory. Specifically, ChatGPT had 62% excellent and 32% minimally clarifying responses, with only 6% needing moderate or substantial clarification. Bard's responses were 66% excellent and 24% minimally clarifying, with 10% requiring more clarification. No significant difference was found in the overall rating distribution between the 2 models. Both struggled with 3 specific questions regarding surgical risks, success rates, and selection of surgical approaches (Q3, Q4, and Q5). Interrater reliability was low for both models (ChatGPT: k = 0.041, p = 0.622; Bard: k = -0.040, p = 0.601). While both scored well on understanding and empathy, Bard received marginally lower ratings in empathy and professionalism. CONCLUSION: ChatGPT3.5 and Bard effectively answered lumbar spine fusion FAQs, but further training and research are needed to solidify LLMs' role in medical education and healthcare communication.

Gender Differences in Electronic Health Record Usage Among Surgeons.

Importance: Understanding gender differences in electronic health record (EHR) use among surgeons is crucial for addressing potential disparities in workload, compensation, and physician well-being. Objective: To investigate gender differences in EHR usage patterns. Design, Setting, and Participants: This cross-sectional study examined data from an EHR system (Epic Signal) at a single academic hospital from January to December 2022. Participants included 224 attending surgeons with patient encounters in the outpatient setting. Statistical analysis was performed from May 2023 to April 2024. Exposures: Surgeon's gender. Main Outcomes and Measures: The primary outcome variables were progress note length, documentation length, time spent in medical records, and time spent documenting patient encounters. Continuous variables were summarized with median and IQR and assessed via the Kruskal-Wallis test. Categorical variables were summarized using proportion and frequency and compared using the χ2 test. Multivariate linear regression was used with primary EHR usage variables as dependent variables and surgeon characteristics as independent variables. Results: This study included 222 529 patient encounters by 224 attending surgeons, of whom 68 (30%) were female and 156 (70%) were male. The median (IQR) time in practice was 14.0 (7.8-24.3) years. Male surgeons had more median (IQR) appointments per month (78.3 [39.2-130.6] vs 57.8 [25.7-89.8]; P = .005) and completed more medical records per month compared with female surgeons (43.0 [21.8-103.9] vs 29.1 [15.9-48.1]; P = .006). While there was no difference in median (IQR) time spent in the EHR system per month (664.1 [301.0-1299.1] vs 635.0 [315.6-1192.0] minutes; P = .89), female surgeons spent more time logged into the system both outside of 7am to 7pm (36.4 [7.8-67.6] vs 14.1 [5.4-52.2] min/mo; P = .05) and outside of scheduled clinic hours (134.8 [58.9-310.1] vs 105.2 [40.8-214.3] min/mo; P = .05). Female surgeons spent more median (IQR) time per note (4.8 [2.6-7.1] vs 2.5 [0.9-4.2] minutes; P < .001) compared with male surgeons. Male surgeons had a higher number of median (IQR) days logged in per month (17.7 [13.8-21.3] vs 15.7 [10.7-19.7] days; P = .03). Female surgeons wrote longer median (IQR) inpatient progress notes (6025.1 [3692.1-7786.7] vs 4307.7 [2808.9-5868.4] characters/note; P = .001) and had increased outpatient document length (6321.1 [4079.9-7825.0] vs 4445.3 [2934.7-6176.7] characters/note; P < .001). Additionally, female surgeons wrote a higher fraction of the notes manually (17% vs 12%; P = .006). After using multivariable linear regression models, male gender was associated with reduced character length for both documentations (regression coefficient, -1106.9 [95% CI, -1981.5 to -232.3]; P = .01) and progress notes (regression coefficient, -1119.0 [95% CI, -1974.1 to -263.9]; P = .01). Male gender was positively associated with total hospital medical records completed (regression coefficient, 47.3 [95% CI, 28.3-66.3]; P < .001). There was no difference associated with gender for time spent in each note, time spent outside of 7 am to 7 pm, or time spent outside scheduled clinic hours. Conclusions and Relevance: This cross-sectional study of EHR data found that female surgeons spent more time documenting patient encounters, wrote longer notes, and spent more time in the EHR system compared with male surgeons. These findings have important implications for understanding the differential burdens faced by female surgeons, including potential contributions to burnout and payment disparities.

Provider's exposure to diversity contributes to socioeconomic disparities in lumbar and cervical fusion outcomes.

Background: Studies report patient race, income, and education influence spinal fusion outcomes; fewer studies, however, examine the influence of provider factors such as exposure to diversity or cultural sensitivity. Objective: To examine how providers' experience with diverse patient populations affects spinal fusion outcomes. Methods: Retrospective review of 39,680 patients undergoing lumbar and cervical fusions, 2003-2021, in Clinformatics® Data Mart national database. We used the provider patient racial diversity index (pRDI)-a published metric of physician exposure to diverse patients-to divide patients into groups based their provider's category (I, II, III) where patients treated by category III providers had surgeons with the most diverse patient populations. Multivariate regression models on propensity score-matched cohorts examined the association between patient SES and provider category on post-operative outcomes. Results: Black patients had decreased discharge home (OR 0.67; 95% CI 0.54-0.83) compared to white patients. Patients treated by category III providers had increased length of stay (Coeff. 0.62; 95% CI 0.43-0.81), charge (Coeff. 36800; 95% CI 29,200-44,400), and decreased discharge home (OR 0.90; 95% CI 0.83-0.97) compared to patients treated by category I providers. Asian patients treated by category II providers had decreased readmission (OR 0.38; 95% CI 0.14-0.96), and Black patients treated by category III providers had increased discharge home (OR 1.41; 95% CI 1.1-1.9) compared to those treated by category I providers. Conclusion: While our study found two specific instances of improved spine surgery outcomes for minority patients treated by providers serving diverse patient populations, we present mixed findings overall. This study serves as the foundation for future research to better understand how provider pRDI affects outcomes in patients undergoing lumbar and cervical spine surgery.

Acute back pain: The role of medication, physical medicine and rehabilitation: WFNS spine committee recommendations.

Objectives: To formulate the most current, evidence-based recommendations for the role of medication, physical medicine, and rehabilitation in the management of acute low back pain lasting <4 weeks. Methods: A systematic literature search in PubMed and Google Scholar databases was performed from 2012 to 2022 using the search terms "acute low back pain," "drugs," "bed rest," "physical medicine," rehabilitation." Standardized screening criteria resulted in a total of 39 articles that were analyzed, including 16 RCTs, 8 prospective studies, 6 retrospective studies, and 9 systematic reviews. This up-to-date information was reviewed and presented at two separate meetings of the World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies (WFNS) Spine Committee. Two rounds of the Delphi method were utilized to vote on the statements and arrive at a positive or negative consensus. Results and conclusion: The WFNS Spine Committee finalized twelve recommendation guidelines on the role of medication, physical medicine and rehabilitation in the management of acute LBP. We advocate for a uniform approach to the treatment of these patients, including proper patient education and utilizing drugs with proven efficacy and minimal side effects. First-line pharmacologic agents are acetaminophen and NSAIDs; muscle relaxants can be used for spasms and pain reduction, and opioids should be minimized. Continued activity, rather than bed rest, is recommended, and lumbar spine orthotics may be used to reduce pain and augment functional status. Thermotherapy, cryotherapy, TENs, spinal manipulative therapy, and acupuncture may all be used as adjuncts to improve acute LBP.

Socioeconomic disparities in lumbar fusion rates were exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted healthcare access and utilization throughout the US, with variable impact on patients of different socioeconomic status (SES) and race. We characterize pre-pandemic and pandemic demographic and SES trends of lumbar fusion patients in the US. Methods: Adults undergoing first-time lumbar fusion 1/1/2004-3/31/2021 were assessed in Clinformatics® Data Mart for patient age, geographical location, gender, race, education level, net worth, and Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI). Multivariable regression models were used to evaluate the significance of trends over time, with a focus on pandemic trends 2020-2021 versus previous trends 2004-2019. Results: The total 217,204 patients underwent lumbar fusions, 1/1/2004-3/31/2021. The numbers and per capita rates of lumbar fusions increased 2004-2019 and decreased in 2020 (first year of COVID-19 pandemic), with large variation in geographic distribution. There was overall a significant decrease in proportion of White patients undergoing lumbar fusion over time (OR=0.997, p<.001), though they were more likely to undergo surgery during the pandemic (OR=1.016, p<.001). From 2004-2021, patients were more likely to be educated beyond high school. Additionally, patients in the highest (>$500k) and lowest (<$25k) net worth categories had significantly more fusions over time (p<.001). During the pandemic (2020-2021), patients in higher net worth groups were more likely to undergo lumbar fusions ($150k-249k & $250k-499k: p<.001) whereas patients in the lowest net worth group had decreased rate of surgeries (p<.001). Lastly, patients' CCI increased significantly from 2004 to 2021 (coefficient=0.124, p<.001), and this trend held true during the pandemic (coefficient=0.179, p<.001). Conclusions: To the best of our knowledge, our work represents the most comprehensive and recent characterization of SES variables in lumbar fusion rates. Unsurprisingly, lumbar fusions decreased overall with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Importantly, disparities in fusion patients across patient race and wealth widened during the pandemic, reversing years of progress, a lesson we can learn for future public health emergencies.

Role of surgery in primary lumbar disk herniation: WFNS spine committee recommendations.

Objective: To provide the most up-to-date recommendations on the role of surgery in first-time lumbar disk herniations (LDH) in order to standardize surgical management. Methods: We performed a literature search in PubMed, Scopus, and Embase from 2012 to 2022 using the following keywords: "lumbar disk herniation AND surgery". Our initial search yielded 2610 results, which were narrowed down to 283 papers after standardized screening critera were applied. The data from these 283 papers were presented and discussed at two international meetings of the World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies (WFNS) Spine Committee, where the Delphi method was employed and ten spine experts voted on five final consensus statements. Results: and Conclusions: The WFNS Spine Committee's guidelines cover four main topics: (1) role and timing of surgery in first-time LDH; (2) role of minimally invasive techniques in LDH; (3) extent of disk resection in LDH surgery; (4) role of lumbar fusion in the context of LDH. Surgery for LDH is recommended for failure of conservative treatment, cauda equina syndrome, and progressive neurological impairment, including severe motor deficits. In the latter cases, early surgery is associated with faster recovery and may improve patient outcomes. Minimally invasive techniques have short-term advantages over open procedures, but there is insufficient evidence to make a recommendation for or against the choice of a specific surgical procedure. Sequestrectomy and standard microdiscectomy demonstrated similar clinical results in terms of pain control, recurrence rate, functional outcome, and complications at short and medium-term follow-up. Lumbar fusion is not recommended as a routine treatment for first-time LDH, although it may be considered in specific patients affected by chronic axial pain or instability.

Cauda equina, conus medullaris and syndromes mimicking sciatic pain: WFNS spine committee recommendations.

Introduction: Cauda equina syndrome (CES), conus medullaris syndrome (CMS), and sciatica-like syndromes or "sciatica mimics" (SM) may present as diagnostic and/or therapeutic dilemmas for the practicing spine surgeon. There is considerable controversy regarding the appropriate definition and diagnosis of these entities, as well as indications for and timing of surgery. Our goal is to formulate the most current, evidence-based recommendations for the definition, diagnosis, and management of CES, CMS, and SM syndromes. Methods: We performed a systematic literature search in PubMed from 2012 to 2022 using the keywords "cauda equina syndrome", "conus medullaris syndrome", "sciatica", and "sciatica mimics". Standardized screening criteria yielded a total of 43 manuscripts, whose data was summarized and presented at two international consensus meetings of the World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies (WFNS) Spine Committee. Utilizing the Delphi method, we generated seven final consensus statements. Results and conclusion: s: We provide standardized definitions of cauda equina, cauda equina syndrome, conus medullaris, and conus medullaris syndrome. We advocate for the use of the Lavy et al classification system to categorize different types of CES, and recommend urgent MRI in all patients with suspected CES (CESS), considering the low sensitivity of clinical examination in excluding CES. Surgical decompression for CES and CMS is recommended within 48 h, preferably within less than 24 h. There is no data regarding the role of steroids in acute CES or CMS. The treating physician should be cognizant of a variety of other pathologies that may mimic sciatica, including piriformis syndrome, and how to manage these.

Acute low back pain: Epidemiology, etiology, and prevention: WFNS spine committee recommendations.

Objective: Acute low back pain is a highly prevalent condition that poses significant challenges to healthcare systems worldwide. In this manuscript, we present the most current, evidence-based guidelines from the World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies (WFNS) Spine Committee on the epidemiology, etiology, and prevention of acute low back pain (LBP) lasting ≤ 4 weeks. Methods: We performed a literature review 2012-2022 using the PubMed, Medline, and CENTRAL databases with the keywords "acute low back pain", "acute back pain", "low back pain", "epidemiology", "etiology", "costs", "risk factor", "cultural", "developed", "developing" and "prevention". Systematic screening criteria were applied, resulting in 13 final articles on epidemiology and etiology of LBP, 2 manuscripts on costs, 5 articles on risk factors, and 23 articles on prevention strategies for acute LBP. These were presented at two separate international meetings, where members of the WFNS Spine Committee voted on five final consensus statements presented here. Results: and Conclusions: There is a high incidence and prevalence of acute LBP, particularly in high-income countries, which is felt to be at least partially due to demographic shifts with an aging population and lifestyle changes including higher rates of obesity and physical inactivity. Acute LBP has a significant impact on quality of life and ability to work, resulting in high direct and indirect costs worldwide. Early diagnosis and appropriate management of acute LBP is recommended to prevent this pain from turning into chronic LBP. The WFNS Spine Committee's recommendations respresent the latest guidelies to help improve patient care for acute LBP worldwide.

Lumbar disc herniation: Epidemiology, clinical and radiologic diagnosis WFNS spine committee recommendations.

Objective: To formulate the most current, evidence-based recommendations regarding the epidemiology, clinical diagnosis, and radiographic diagnosis of lumbar herniated disk (LDH). Methods: A systematic literature search in PubMed, MEDLINE, and CENTRAL was performed from 2012 to 2022 using the search terms "herniated lumbar disc", "epidemiology", "prevention" "clinical diagnosis", and "radiological diagnosis". Screening criteria resulted in 17, 16, and 90 studies respectively that were analyzed regarding epidemiology, clinical diagnosis, and radiographic diagnosis of LDH. Using the Delphi method and two rounds of voting at two separate international meetings, ten members of the WFNS (World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies) Spine Committee generated eleven final consensus statements. Results: The lifetime risk for symptomatic LDH is 1-3%; of these, 60-90% resolve spontaneously. Risk factors for LDH include genetic and environmental factors, strenuous activity, and smoking. LDH is more common in males and in 30-50 year olds. A set of clinical tests, including manual muscle testing, sensory testing, Lasegue sign, and crossed Lasegue sign are recommended to diagnose LDH. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the gold standard for confirming suspected LDH. Conclusions: These eleven final consensus statements provide current, evidence-based guidelines on the epidemiology, clinical diagnosis, and radiographic diagnosis of LDH for practicing spine surgeons worldwide.

Acute back pain - Role of injection techniques and surgery: WFNS spine committee recommendations.

Objective: Lower back pain is a significant cause of morbidity, and despite a range of interventions available, there is a lack of consensus on the most efficacious treatments. The aim of this systematic review is to formulate a list of recommendations for the role of spinal injections and surgery in the treatment of acute back pain. Methods: A systematic literature search from 2012 to 2022 was conducted on Pubmed, Medline, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for papers focusing on the role of injections and surgery for the management of acute lower back pain. Inclusion criteria included randomised controlled trials, as well as prospective and retrospective studies reporting primary outcomes (pain improvement (VAS score) and back-specific functional status) and secondary outcomes (post-procedure complications). These data were reviewed, presented, and voted on by an expert panel consisting of 14 attending spine surgeons from 14 countries at the consensus meeting of the World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies (WFNS) Spine Committee. A two-round consensus-based Delphi method was used to generate consensus, and topics with >66% agreement were categorized as having reached consensus. Results: 100 studies met inclusion criteria. Of these, 20 were selected by the committee for full text review and presented at the consensus meeting. The committee voted on 8 statements and achieved consensus on the following 7 statements: (1) Epidural steroid injections (ESIs) show significant benefit to discogenic back pain; (2) A lateral approach is superior to a midline approach for ESIs; (3) Short-term (<1 week) effect of ESIs is similar between steroids; (4) ESIs have a variety of potential complications; (5) CT or fluoroscopy guidance can be used for lumbar medial branch blocks; (6) Lumbar medial branch radiofrequency ablations can be performed on patients with recurrent pain after a successful ESI, and (7) Acute lower back pain is usually self-limiting, resolves in <6 weeks, and does not require surgical intervention. Conclusion: Given significant treatment heterogeneity, we provide the latest, evidence-based recommendations for management of acute lower back pain. ESIs are effective at short-term pain relief, and surgical intervention should be reserved for patients failing conservative measures.

Lumbar disc herniation: Prevention and treatment of recurrence: WFNS spine committee recommendations.

Objective: This review aims to formulate the most current evidence-based recommendations on the epidemiology, prevention, and treatment of recurrent lumbar disc herniation (LDH). Methods: We performed a systematic literature search in PubMed, Medline, and Google Scholar databases from 2012 to 2022 using the keywords "lumbar disc recurrence." Screening criteria resulted in 57 papers, which were summarized and presented at two international consensus meetings of the World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies (WFNS) Spine Committee. The 57 papers covered the following topics: (1) Definition and incidence of recurrence after lumbar disc surgery; (2) Prediction of recurrence before primary surgery; (3) Prevention of recurrence by surgical measures; (4) Prevention of recurrence by postoperative measures; (5) Treatment options for recurrent disc herniation; (6) The outcomes of recurrent disc herniation surgery. We utilized the Delphi method and voted on eight final consensus statements. Results and conclusion: Recurrence after disc herniation surgery may be considered a surgical complication, its incidence is approximately 5% and is different from overall re-operation incidence. There are multiple risk factors predicting LDH recurrence, including smoking, younger age, male gender, obesity, diabetes, disc degeneration, and presence of lumbosacral transitional vertebrae. The level of lumbar discectomy surgery and the amount of disc material removed do not correlate with recurrence rate. Minimally invasive discectomies may have higher recurrence rates, especially during the surgeon's learning period. However, the experience of the surgeon is not related to recurrence. High-quality studies are needed to determine if activity restriction, weight loss, smoking cessation, and muscle-strengthening exercises after primary surgery can help prevent recurrence of LDH.The best treatment option for recurrent disc herniation is still being discussed. While complications of minimally invasive techniques may be lower than open discectomy, outcomes are similar. Fusion should only be considered when spinal instability and/or spinal deformity are present. Clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction after recurrent disc herniation surgery are inferior to those after initial discectomy.

The role of conservative treatment in lumbar disc herniations: WFNS spine committee recommendations.

Objective: To formulate the most current, evidence-based recommendations for the conservative management of lumbar disc herniations (LDH). Methods: A systematic literatüre search was performed 2012-2022 in PubMed/Medline and Cochrane using the keywords ''lumbar disc herniation'' and ''conservative treatment,'' yielding 342 total manuscripts. Screening criteria resulted in 12 final manuscripts which were summarized and presented at two international consensus meetings of the World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies (WFNS) Spine Committee. The Delphi method was utilized to arrive at three final consensus statements. Results and conclusion: s: In the absence of cauda equina syndrome, motor, or other serious neurologic deficits, conservative treatment should be the first line of treatment for LDH. NSAIDs may significantly improve acute low back and sciatic pain caused by LDH. A combination of activity modification, pharmacotherapy, and physical therapy provides good outcomes in most LDH patients.

Acute back pain: Clinical and radiologic diagnosis: WFNS spine committee recommendations.

Objective: To formulate the most current, evidence-based recommendations for the clinical and radiologic diagnosis of acute low back pain lasting <4 weeks. Methods: A systematic literature search in PubMed and Google Scholar databases was performed from 2012 to 2022 using the search terms "acute back pain AND clinical diagnosis" and "acute back pain AND radiologic diagnosis". Screening criteria resulted in a total of 97 papers analyzed. Using the Delphi method and two rounds of voting, the WFNS (World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies) Spine Committee generated ten final consensus statements. Results: Ten final consensus statements address the clinical diagnosis of acute LBP, including which clinical conditions cause acute LBP and how we can distinguish between the different causes of LBP, including discogenic, facet joint, sacroiliac joint, and myofascial pain. The most important step for the radiologic diagnosis of acute LBP is to evaluate the necessity of radiologic investigation, as well as its timing and the most appropriate type of imaging modality. Importantly, imaging should not be a routine diagnostic tool, unless red flag signs are present. In fact, routine imaging for acute LBP can actually have a negative effect as it may reveal incidental radiographic findings that exacerbate patient fear and anxiety. Conclusion: Overall, the quality of evidence is not high for most of our consensus statements, and further studies are needed to validate the WFNS Spine Committee recommendations on the clinical and radiographic diagnosis of acute LBP.

Standardizing Continuous Physical Activity Monitoring in Patients with Cervical Spondylosis.

STUDY DESIGN/SETTING: Prospective cohort study. OBJECTIVE: To use a commercial wearable device to measure real-life, continuous physical activity in patients with CS and to establish age-adjusted and sex-adjusted standardized scores. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Patients with cervical spondylosis (CS) often present with pain or neurologic deficits that result in functional limitations and inactivity. However, little is known regarding the influence of CS on the patient's real-life physical activity. METHODS: This study included 100 English-speaking adult patients with cervical degenerative diseases undergoing elective spine surgery at Stanford University who owned iPhones. Patients undergoing surgery for spine infections, trauma, tumors, or lumbar degenerative disease were excluded. Activity two weeks before surgery was expressed as raw daily step counts. Standardized z-scores were calculated based on age-specific and sex-specific values of a control population. Responses to patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) surveys assessed convergent validity. Functional impairment was categorized based on predetermined z-score cut-off values. RESULTS: Thirty CS with a mean (±SD) age of 56.0 (±13.4) y wore an Apple Watch for ≥8 hours/day in 87.1% of the days. The mean watch wear time was 15.7 (±4.2) hours/day, and the mean daily step count was 6400 (±3792). There was no significant difference in activity between 13 patients (43%) with myelopathy and 17 (57%) without myelopathy. Test-retest reliability between wearable step count measurements was excellent (ICC ß=0.95). Physical activity showed a moderate positive correlation with 36-Item Short Form Survey Physical Component Summary, EuroQol-5-dimension visual analog scale, and Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Physical Function Subscale. Activity performance was classified into categories of "no impairment" [step count=9640 (±2,412)], "mild impairment" [6054(±816)], "moderate impairment" [3,481 (±752)], and "severe impairment" [1,619 (±240)]. CONCLUSION: CS patients' physical activity is significantly lower than the general population or the frequently stated goals of 7000 to 10,000 steps/day. Standardized, continuous wearable physical activity monitoring in CS is a reliable, valid, and normalized outcome tool that may help characterize functional impairment before and after spinal interventions.

Getting what you pay for: impact of copayments on physical therapy and opioid initiation, timing, and continuation for newly diagnosed low back pain.

BACKGROUND CONTEXT: Physical therapy (PT) is an important component of low back pain (LBP) management. Despite established guidelines, heterogeneity in medical management remains common. PURPOSE: We sought to understand how copayments impact timing and utilization of PT in newly diagnosed LBP. STUDY DESIGN/SETTING: The IBM Watson Health MarketScan claims database was used in a longitudinal setting. PATIENT SAMPLE: Adult patients with LBP. OUTCOME MEASURES: The primary outcomes-of-interest were timing and overall utilization of PT services. Additional outcomes-of-interest included timing of opioid prescribing. METHODS: Actual and inferred copayments based on nonnonprimary care provider visit claims were used to evaluate the relationship between PT copayment and incidence of PT initiation. Multivariable regression models were used to evaluate factors influencing PT usage. RESULTS: Overall, 2,467,389 patients were included. PT initiation, among those with at ≥1 PT service during the year after LBP diagnosis (30.6%), occurred at a median of 8 days postdiagnosis (IQR 1-55). Among those with at least one PT encounter, incidence of subsequent PT visits was significantly lower for those with high initial PT copayments. High initial PT copayments, while inversely correlated with PT utilization, were directly correlated with subsequent opioid use (0.77 prescriptions/patient [$0 PT copayment] versus 1.07 prescriptions/patient [$50-74 PT copayment]; 1.15 prescriptions/patient [$75+ PT copayment]). Among patients with known opioid and PT copayments, higher PT copayments were correlated with faster opioid use while higher opioid copayments were correlated with faster PT use (Spearman p<.05). For multivariable whole-cohort analyses, incidence of PT initiation among patients with inferred copayments in the 50-75th and 75-100th percentiles was significantly lower than those below the 50th percentile (HR=0.893 [95%CI 0.887-0.899] and HR=0.905 [95%CI 0.899-0.912], respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Higher PT copayments correlated with reduced PT utilization; higher PT copayments and lower opioid copayments were independent contributors to delayed PT initiation and higher opioid use. In patients covered by plans charging high PT copayments, opioid use was significantly higher. Copays may impact long-term adherence to PT.

Socioeconomic Influence on Cervical Fusion Outcomes.

STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective observational study. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to compare postoperative outcomes following cervical fusion based on socioeconomic status (SES) variables including race, education, net worth, and homeownership status. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Previous studies have demonstrated the effects of patient race and income on outcomes following cervical fusion procedures. However, no study to date has comprehensively examined the impact of multiple SES variables. We hypothesized that race, education, net worth, and homeownership influence important outcomes following cervical fusion. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Optum's de-identified Clinformatics Data Mart (CDM) database was queried for patients undergoing first-time inpatient cervical fusion from 2003 to 2021. Patient demographics, SES variables, and the Charlson comorbidity index were obtained. Primary outcomes were hospital length of stay and 30-day rates of reoperation, readmission, and postoperative complications. Secondary outcomes included postoperative emergency room visits, discharge status, and total hospital charges. RESULTS: A total of 111,914 patients underwent cervical spinal fusion from 2003 to 2021. Multivariate analysis revealed that after controlling for age, sex, and Charlson comorbidity index, Black race was associated with a higher rate of 30-day readmissions [odds ratio (OR): 1.11, 95% CI: 1.03-1.20]. Lower net worth (vs. >$500K) and renting (vs. owning a home) were significantly associated with both higher rates of 30-day readmissions (OR: 1.29, 95% CI: 1.17-1.41; OR: 1.34, 95% CI: 1.22-1.49), and emergency room visits (OR: 1.29, 95% CI: 1.18-1.42; OR: 1.11, 95% CI: 1.00-1.23). Lower net worth (vs. >$500K) was also associated with increased complications (OR: 1.22, 95% CI: 1.14-1.31). CONCLUSION: Socioeconomic variables, including patient race, education, and net worth, influence postoperative metrics in cervical spinal fusion surgery. Future studies should focus on developing and implementing targeted interventions based on patient SES to reduce disparity.

Demographic and Socioeconomic Trends in Cervical Fusion Utilization from 2004 Through 2021 and the COVID-19 Pandemic.

BACKGROUND: Cervical fusion rates increased in the U.S. exponentially 1990-2014, but trends leading up to/during the COVID-19 pandemic have not been fully evaluated by patient socioeconomic status (SES). Here, we provide the most recent, comprehensive characterization of demographic and SES trends in cervical fusions, including during the pandemic. METHODS: We collected the following variables on adults undergoing cervical fusions, 1/1/2004-3/31/2021, in Optum's Clinformatics Data Mart: age, Charlson Comorbidity Index, provider's practicing state, gender, race, education, and net worth. We performed multivariate linear and logistic regression to evaluate associations of cervical fusion rates with SES variables. RESULTS: Cervical fusion rates increased 2004-2016, then decreased 2016-2020. Proportions of Asian, Black, and Hispanic patients undergoing cervical fusions increased (OR = 1.001,1.001,1.004, P < 0.01), with a corresponding decrease in White patients (OR = 0.996, P < 0.001) over time. There were increases in cervical fusions in higher education groups (OR = 1.006, 1.002, P < 0.001) and lowest net worth group (OR = 1.012, P < 0.001). During the pandemic, proportions of White (OR = 1.015, P < 0.01) and wealthier patients (OR ≥ 1.015, P < 0.01) undergoing cervical fusions increased. CONCLUSIONS: We present the first documented decrease in annual cervical surgery rates in the U.S. Our data reveal a bimodal distribution for cervical fusion patients, with racial-minority, lower-net-worth, and highly-educated patients receiving increasing proportions of surgical interventions. White and wealthier patients were more likely to undergo cervical fusions during the COVID-19 pandemic, which has been reported in other areas of medicine but not yet in spine surgery. There is still considerable work needed to improve equitable access to spine care for the entire U.S.

Thoracic and Lumbar Spine Injury: Evidence-Based Diagnosis, Management, and Outcomes.

BACKGROUND: Traumatic thoracolumbar spine injuries are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Targeted for non-spine specialist trauma surgeons, this systematic scoping review aimed to examine literature for up-to-date evidence on presentation, management, and outcomes of thoracolumbar spine injuries in adult trauma patients. METHODS: This review was reported using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses checklist. We searched four bibliographic databases: PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library. Eligible studies included experimental, observational, and evidence-synthesis articles evaluating patients with thoracic, lumbar, or thoracolumbar spine injury, published in English between January 1, 2010 and January 31, 2021. Studies which focused on animals, cadavers, cohorts with N <30, and pediatric cohorts (age <18 years old), as well as case studies, abstracts, and commentaries were excluded. RESULTS: A total of 2501 studies were screened, of which 326 unique studies were fully text reviewed and twelve aspects of injury management were identified and discussed: injury patterns, determination of injury status and imaging options, considerations in management, and patient quality of life. We found: (1) imaging is a necessary diagnostic tool, (2) no consensus exists for preferred injury characterization scoring systems, (3) operative management should be considered for unstable fractures, decompression, and deformity, and (4) certain patients experience significant burden following injury. DISCUSSION: In this systematic scoping review, we present the most up-to-date information regarding the management of traumatic thoracolumbar spine injuries. This allows non-specialist trauma surgeons to become more familiar with thoracolumbar spine injuries in trauma patients and provides a framework for their management.

Costs and Outcomes of Total Joint Arthroplasty in Medicare Beneficiaries Are Not Meaningfully Associated with Industry Payments.

BACKGROUND: Prior studies have demonstrated that industry payments affect physician prescribing patterns, but their effect on orthopaedic surgical costs is unknown. This study examines the relationship between industry payments and the total costs of primary total joint arthroplasty, as well as operating room cost, length of stay, 30-day mortality, and 30-day readmission. METHODS: Open Payments data were matched across a 20% sample of Medicare-insured patients undergoing primary elective total hip arthroplasty (THA) (n = 130,872) performed by 7,539 surgeons or primary elective total knee arthroplasty (TKA) (n = 230,856) performed by 8,977 surgeons from 2013 to 2015. Patient, hospital, and surgeon-specific factors were gathered. Total and operating room costs, length of stay, mortality, and readmissions were recorded. Multivariable linear and logistic regression models were used to identify the risk-adjusted relationships between industry payments and the primary and secondary outcomes. RESULTS: In this study, 96.7% of THA surgeons and 97.4% of TKA surgeons received industry payments. After multivariable risk adjustment, for each $1,000 increase in industry payments, the total costs of THA increased by $0.50 (0.003% of total costs) and the operating room costs of THA increased by $0.20 (0.003% of total costs). Industry payments were not associated with TKA cost. Industry payments were not associated with 30-day mortality after either THA or TKA. Higher industry payments were independently associated with a marginal decrease in the length of stay for patients undergoing THA (0.0045 days per $1,000) or TKA (0.0035 days per $1,000) and a <0.1% increase in the odds of 30-day readmission after THA for every $1,000 in industry payments. The median total THA costs were $300 higher (p < 0.001), whereas the median TKA costs were $150 lower (p < 0.001), for surgeons receiving the highest 5% of industry payments. These surgical procedures were more often performed in large urban areas, in hospitals with a higher number of beds, with a higher wage index, and by more experienced surgeons and were associated with a 0.4 to 1-day shorter length of stay (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Although most arthroplasty surgeons received industry payments, a minority of surgeons received the majority of payments. Overall, arthroplasty costs and outcomes were not meaningfully impacted by industry relationships. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Prognostic Level III . See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.