The impact of anxiety and depression on lumbar spine surgical outcomes: a Michigan Spine Surgery Improvement Collaborative study.

OBJECTIVE: The presence of depression and anxiety has been associated with negative outcomes in spine surgery patients. While it seems evident that a history of depression or anxiety can negatively influence outcome, the exact additive effect of both has not been extensively studied in a multicenter trial. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between a patient's history of anxiety and depression and their patient-reported outcomes (PROs) after lumbar surgery. METHODS: Patients in the Michigan Spine Surgery Improvement Collaborative registry undergoing lumbar spine surgery between July 2016 and December 2021 were grouped into four cohorts: those with a history of anxiety only, those with a history of depression only, those with both, and those with neither. Primary outcomes were achieving the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Physical Function 4-item Short Form (PROMIS PF), EQ-5D, and numeric rating scale (NRS) back pain and leg pain, and North American Spine Society patient satisfaction. Secondary outcomes included surgical site infection, hospital readmission, and return to the operating room. Multivariate Poisson generalized estimating equation models were used to report incidence rate ratios (IRRs) from patient baseline variables. RESULTS: Of the 45,565 patients identified, 3941 reported a history of anxiety, 5017 reported a history of depression, 9570 reported both, and 27,037 reported neither. Compared with those who reported having neither, patients with both anxiety and depression had lower patient satisfaction at 90 days (p = 0.002) and 1 year (p = 0.021); PROMIS PF MCID at 90 days (p < 0.001), 1 year (p < 0.001), and 2 years (p = 0.006); EQ-5D MCID at 90 days (p < 0.001), 1 year (p < 0.001), and 2 years (p < 0.001); NRS back pain MCID at 90 days (p < 0.001) and 1 year (p < 0.001); and NRS leg pain MCID at 90 days (p < 0.001), 1 year (p = 0.024), and 2 years (p = 0.027). Patients with anxiety only (p < 0.001), depression only (p < 0.001), or both (p < 0.001) were more likely to be readmitted within 90 days. Additionally, patients with anxiety only (p = 0.015) and both anxiety and depression (p = 0.015) had higher rates of surgical site infection. Patients with anxiety only (p = 0.006) and depression only (p = 0.021) also had higher rates of return to the operating room. CONCLUSIONS: The authors observed an association between a history of anxiety and depression and negative outcome after lumbar spine surgery. In addition, they found an additive effect of a history of both anxiety and depression with an increased risk of negative outcome when compared with either anxiety or depression alone.

Risk factors of emergency department visits following elective cervical and lumbar surgical procedures: a multi-institution analysis from the Michigan Spine Surgery Improvement Collaborative.

OBJECTIVE: Emergency department visits 90 days after elective spinal surgery are relatively common, with rates ranging from 9% to 29%. Emergency visits are very costly, so their reduction is of importance. This study's objective was to evaluate the reasons for emergency department visits and determine potentially modifiable risk factors. METHODS: This study retrospectively reviewed data queried from the Michigan Spine Surgery Improvement Collaborative (MSSIC) registry from July 2020 to November 2021. MSSIC is a multicenter (28-hospital) registry of patients undergoing cervical and lumbar degenerative spinal surgery. Adult patients treated for elective cervical and/or lumbar spine surgery for degenerative pathology (spondylosis, intervertebral disc disease, low-grade spondylolisthesis) were included. Emergency department visits within 90 days of surgery (outcome measure) were analyzed utilizing univariate and multivariate regression analyses. RESULTS: Of 16,224 patients, 2024 (12.5%) presented to the emergency department during the study period, most commonly for pain related to spinal surgery (31.5%), abdominal problems (15.8%), and pain unrelated to the spinal surgery (12.8%). On multivariate analysis, age (per 5-year increase) (relative risk [RR] 0.94, 95% CI 0.92-0.95), college education (RR 0.82, 95% CI 0.69-0.96), private insurance (RR 0.79, 95% CI 0.70-0.89), and preoperative ambulation status (RR 0.88, 95% CI 0.79-0.97) were associated with decreased emergency visits. Conversely, Black race (RR 1.30, 95% CI 1.13-1.51), current diabetes (RR 1.13, 95% CI 1.01-1.26), history of deep venous thromboembolism (RR 1.28, 95% CI 1.16-1.43), history of depression (RR 1.13, 95% CI 1.03-1.25), history of anxiety (RR 1.32, 95% CI 1.19-1.46), history of osteoporosis (RR 1.21, 95% CI 1.09-1.34), history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (RR 1.19, 95% CI 1.06-1.34), American Society of Anesthesiologists class > II (RR 1.18, 95% CI 1.08-1.29), and length of stay > 3 days (RR 1.29, 95% CI 1.16-1.44) were associated with increased emergency visits. CONCLUSIONS: The most common reasons for emergency department visits were surgical pain, abdominal dysfunction, and pain unrelated to index spinal surgery. Increased focus on postoperative pain management and bowel regimen can potentially reduce emergency visits. The risks of diabetes, history of osteoporosis, depression, and anxiety are areas for additional preoperative screening.

Clinical safety and feasibility of a novel implantable neuroimmune modulation device for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis: initial results from the randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled RESET-RA study.

BACKGROUND: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease that causes persistent synovitis, bone damage, and progressive joint destruction. Neuroimmune modulation through electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve activates the inflammatory reflex and has been shown to inhibit the production and release of inflammatory cytokines and decrease clinical signs and symptoms in RA. The RESET-RA study was designed to determine the safety and efficacy of an active implantable device for treating RA. METHODS: The RESET-RA study is a randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled, multi-center, two-stage pivotal trial that enrolled patients with moderate-to-severe RA who were incomplete responders or intolerant to at least one biologic or targeted synthetic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug. A neuroimmune modulation device (SetPoint Medical, Valencia, CA) was implanted on the left cervical vagus nerve within the carotid sheath in all patients. Following post-surgical clearance, patients were randomly assigned (1:1) to active stimulation or non-active (control) stimulation for 1 min once per day. A predefined blinded interim analysis was performed in patients enrolled in the study's initial stage (Stage 1) that included demographics, enrollment rates, device implantation rates, and safety of the surgical procedure, device, and stimulation over 12 weeks of treatment. RESULTS: Sixty patients were implanted during Stage 1 of the study. All device implant procedures were completed without intraoperative complications, infections, or surgical revisions. No unanticipated adverse events were reported during the perioperative period and at the end of 12 weeks of follow-up. No study discontinuations were due to adverse events, and no serious adverse events were related to the device or stimulation. Two serious adverse events were related to the implantation procedure: vocal cord paresis and prolonged hoarseness. These were reported in two patients and are known complications of surgical implantation procedures with vagus nerve stimulation devices. The adverse event of vocal cord paresis resolved after vocal cord augmentation injections with filler and speech therapy. The prolonged hoarseness had improved with speech therapy, but mild hoarseness persists. CONCLUSIONS: The surgical procedures for implantation of the novel neuroimmune modulation device for the treatment of RA were safe, and the device and its use were well tolerated. TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT04539964; August 31, 2020.

Does Tighter Glycemic Control Beyond Hemoglobin A1c of 8% Improve Outcome for Lumbar Spine Surgery? A MSSIC Study.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Diabetes mellitus is associated with increased risk of postoperative adverse outcomes. Previous studies have emphasized the role of glycemic control in postoperative complications. This study aims to ascertain whether controlling hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) lower than 8% preoperatively results in meaningful risk reduction or improved outcomes. METHODS: We used patient-level data from the Michigan Spine Surgery Improvement Collaborative registry, focusing on patients who underwent elective lumbar spine surgery between 2018 and 2021. The primary outcomes were length of stay and the occurrence of postoperative adverse events. Secondary outcomes included patient satisfaction, achievement of a minimum clinically important difference (MCID) of Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System-Physical Function, the EuroQol-5D and NRS of leg and back pain, and return to work. RESULTS: A total of 11 348 patients were included in this analysis. Patients with HbA1c above the thresholds before surgery had significantly higher risks of urinary retention for all 3 possible threshold values (incidence rate ratio [IRR] = 1.30, P = .015; IRR = 1.35, P = .001; IRR = 1.25, P = .011 for the HbA1c cutoffs of 8%, 7.5%, and 7%, respectively). They also had longer hospital stay (IRR = 1.04, P = .002; IRR = 1.03, P = .001; IRR = 1.03, P < .001 for the HbA1c cutoffs of 8%, 7.5%, and 7%, respectively) and had higher risks of developing any complication with HbA1c cutoff of 7.5% (IRR = 1.09, P = .010) and 7% (IRR = 1.12, P = .001). Diabetics with preoperative HbA1c above all 3 thresholds were less likely to achieve Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System MCID at the 90-day follow-up (IRR = .81, P < .001; IRR = .86, P < .001; IRR = .90, P = .007 for the HbA1c cutoffs of 8%, 7.5%, and 7%, respectively) and less likely to achieve EuroQol-5D MCID at the 2-year follow-up (IRR = .87, P = .027; IRR = .84, P = .005 for the HbA1c cutoffs of 7.5% and 7%, respectively). CONCLUSION: Our study suggests that reducing HbA1c below 8% may have diminishing returns regarding reducing complications after spine surgery.

Risk factors for not reaching minimal clinically important difference at 90 days and 1 year after elective lumbar spine surgery: a cohort study.

OBJECTIVE: Patient-perceived functional improvement is a core metric in lumbar surgery for degenerative disease. It is important to identify both modifiable and nonmodifiable risk factors that can be evaluated and possibly optimized prior to elective surgery. This case-control study was designed to study risk factors for not achieving the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) in Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Function 4-item Short Form (PROMIS PF) score. METHODS: The authors queried the Michigan Spine Surgery Improvement Collaborative database to identify patients who underwent elective lumbar surgical procedures with PROMIS PF scores. Cases were divided into two cohorts based on whether patients achieved MCID at 90 days and 1 year after surgery. Patient characteristics and operative details were analyzed as potential risk factors. RESULTS: The authors captured 10,922 patients for 90-day follow-up and 4453 patients (40.8%) did not reach MCID. At the 1-year follow-up period, 7780 patients were identified and 2941 patients (37.8%) did not achieve MCID. The significant demographic characteristic-adjusted relative risks (RRs) for both groups (RR 90 day, RR 1 year) included the following: symptom duration > 1 year (1.34, 1.41); previous spine surgery (1.25, 1.30); African American descent (1.25, 1.20); chronic opiate use (1.23, 1.25); and less than high school education (1.20, 1.34). Independent ambulatory status (0.83, 0.88) and private insurance (0.91, 0.85) were associated with higher likelihood of reaching MCID at 90 days and 1 year, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Several key unique demographic risk factors were identified in this cohort study that precluded optimal postoperative functional outcomes after elective lumbar spine surgery. With this information, appropriate preoperative counseling can be administered to assist in shaping patient expectations.

History and Future of Spinal Cord Stimulation.

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is a surgical treatment for chronic neuropathic pain refractory to medical management. An SCS system comprised one or more leads implanted in the epidural space, typically connected to an implantable pulse generator. This review discusses the history, indications, surgical technique, technological advances, and future directions of SCS.

Cervical disc arthroplasty versus anterior cervical discectomy and fusion: an analysis of the Michigan Spine Surgery Improvement Collaborative Database.

BACKGROUND CONTEXT: Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) and cervical disc arthroplasty (CDA) are established surgical options for the treatment of cervical radiculopathy, myelopathy, and cervical degenerative disc disease. However, current literature does not demonstrate a clear superiority between ACDF and CDA. PURPOSE: To investigate procedural and patient-reported outcomes of ACDF and CDA among patients included in the Michigan Spine Surgery Improvement Collaborative (MSSIC) database. DESIGN: Retrospective study of prospectively collected outcomes registry data. PATIENT SAMPLE: Individuals within the MSSIC database presenting with radiculopathy, myelopathy, or cervical spondylosis refractory to typical conservative care undergoing primary ACDF or CDA from January 4, 2016, to November 5, 2021. OUTCOME MEASURES: Perioperative measures (including surgery length, length of stay, return to OR, any complications), patient-reported functional outcomes at 2-year follow-up (including return to work, patient satisfaction, PROMIS, EQ-5D, mJOA). METHODS: Patients undergoing ACDF were matched 4:1 with those undergoing CDA; propensity analysis performed on operative levels (1- and 2- level procedures), presenting condition, demographics, and comorbidities. Initial comparisons performed with univariate testing and multivariate analysis performed with Poisson generalized estimating equation models clustering on hospital. RESULTS: A total of 2,208 patients with ACDF and 552 patients with CDA were included. Baseline demographics were similar, with younger patients undergoing CDA (45.6 vs 48.6 years; p<.001). Myelopathy was more frequent in ACDF patients (30% vs 25%; p=.015). CDA was more frequently planned as an outpatient procedure. Length of stay was increased in ACDF (1.3 vs 1.0 days; p<.001). Functional outcomes were similar, with comparable proportions of patients meeting minimal clinically important difference thresholds in neck pain, arm pain, PROMIS, EQ-5D, and mJOA score. After multivariate regression, no significant differences were seen in surgical or functional outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates similar outcomes for those undergoing ACDF and CDA at 2 years. Previous meta-analyses of CDA clinical trial data adhere to strict inclusion and exclusion criteria required by clinical studies; this registry data provides "real world" clinical outcomes reflecting current practices for ACDF and CDA patient selection.

Survey of United States neurosurgeons on firearm injury prevention.

OBJECTIVE: Firearm-related injuries and deaths are an endemic problem in the US, posing a burden on the healthcare system with significant social and economic consequences. As front-line care providers for these patients, neurosurgeons are both knowledgeable about these injuries and credible messengers in the public discussion of ways to reduce firearm injuries. The purpose of this study was to explore US-based neurosurgeons' views and behaviors regarding firearms to understand and define a potential role for neurosurgical organizations in advocacy efforts to reduce firearm death and injuries. METHODS: The authors conducted an anonymous survey of US neurosurgeons using the American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS) member database from April to June 2023. The 22-question survey included questions related to firearm ownership, personal views on firearms, and support for both general and policy-specific advocacy efforts to reduce firearm deaths and injuries. RESULTS: The survey response rate was 20.7%, with 1568 of the 7587 members invited completing the survey. The survey completion rate was 93.4%, with 1465 of the 1568 surveys completed and included in this analysis. The majority of respondents were male (raw: 81.7%; weighted 81.1%), White (raw: 69.7%; weighted 70.2%), and older than 50 years (raw: 56.2%; weighted: 54%). Most respondents reported treating patients with firearm injuries (raw: 83.3%; weighted: 82%), 85.5% (weighted: 85.1%) had used a firearm, and 42.4% (weighted: 41.5%) reported owning a firearm. Overall, 78.8% (weighted: 78.7%) of respondents felt that organized neurosurgery should participate in advocacy efforts. When examining individual policies, those that restrict the acquisition of firearms garnered the support of at least 65% of respondents, while nonrestrictive policies were supported by more than 75% of respondents. Free-text responses provided insight into both motivations for and objections to organizational advocacy. CONCLUSIONS: The majority of US-based neurosurgeons support involvement in advocacy efforts to reduce firearm deaths and injuries. Themes expressed by members both supporting and objecting to advocacy provide insight into approaches that could ensure broad support. Neurosurgical organizations such as the AANS and Congress of Neurological Surgeons may use the results of this survey to make informed decisions regarding involvement in advocacy efforts on behalf of their membership to lessen the burden of firearm injury in the US.

The Duration of Symptoms Influences Outcomes After Lumbar Microdiscectomies: A Michigan Spine Surgery Improvement Collaborative.

STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective Cohort. OBJECTIVE: We investigate whether duration of symptoms a patient experiences prior to lumbar microdiscectomy affects pain, lifestyle, and return to work metrics after surgery. METHODS: A retrospective review of patients with a diagnosis of lumbar radiculopathy undergoing microdiscectomy was conducted using a statewide registry. Patients were grouped based on self-reported duration of symptoms prior to surgical intervention (Group 1: symptoms less than 3 months; Group 2: symptoms between 3 months and 1 year; and Group 3: symptoms greater than 1 year). Radicular pain scores, PROMIS PF Physical Function measure (PROMIS PF), EQ-5D scores, and return to work rates at 90 days, 1 year, and 2 years after surgery were compared using univariate and multivariate analysis. RESULTS: There were 2408 patients who underwent microdiscectomy for lumbar disc herniation for radiculopathy with 532, 910, and 955 in Groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively. Postoperative leg pain was lower for Group 1 at 90 days, 1 year, and 2 years compared to Groups 2 and 3 (P < .05). Postoperative PROMIS PF and EQ-5D scores were higher for Group 1 at 90 days, 1 year, and 2 years compared to Groups 2 and 3 (P < .05). CONCLUSION: Patients with prolonged symptoms prior to surgical intervention experience smaller improvements in postoperative leg pain, PROMIS PF, and EQ-5D than those who undergo surgery earlier. Patients undergoing surgery within 3 months of symptom onset have the highest rates of return to work at 1 year after surgery.

Congress of Neurological Surgeons Systematic Review and Evidence-Based Guidelines for Occipital Nerve Stimulation for the Treatment of Patients With Medically Refractory Occipital Neuralgia: Update.

BACKGROUND: The Guidelines Task Force conducted a systematic review of the relevant literature on occipital nerve stimulation (ONS) for occipital neuralgia (ON) to update the original 2015 guidelines to ensure timeliness and accuracy for clinical practice. OBJECTIVE: To conduct a systematic review of the literature and update the evidence-based guidelines on ONS for ON. METHODS: The Guidelines Task Force conducted another systematic review of the relevant literature, using the same search terms and strategies used to search PubMed and Embase for relevant literature. The updated search included studies published between 1966 and January 2023. The same inclusion/exclusion criteria as the original guideline were also applied. Abstracts were reviewed, and relevant full text articles were retrieved and graded. Of 307 articles, 18 were retrieved for full-text review and analysis. Recommendations were updated according to new evidence yielded by this update . RESULTS: Nine studies were included in the original guideline, reporting the use of ONS as an effective treatment option for patients with medically refractory ON. An additional 6 studies were included in this update. All studies in the original guideline and this current update provide Class III evidence. CONCLUSION: Based on the availability of new literature, the current article is a minor update only that does not result in modification of the prior recommendations: Clinicians may use ONS as a treatment option for patients with medically refractory ON.

Long-term outcomes of mesial temporal laser interstitial thermal therapy for drug-resistant epilepsy and subsequent surgery for seizure recurrence: a multi-centre cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Magnetic resonance-guided laser interstitial thermal therapy (MRgLITT) is a minimally invasive alternative to surgical resection for drug-resistant mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (mTLE). Reported rates of seizure freedom are variable and long-term durability is largely unproven. Anterior temporal lobectomy (ATL) remains an option for patients with MRgLITT treatment failure. However, the safety and efficacy of this staged strategy is unknown. METHODS: This multicentre, retrospective cohort study included 268 patients consecutively treated with mesial temporal MRgLITT at 11 centres between 2012 and 2018. Seizure outcomes and complications of MRgLITT and any subsequent surgery are reported. Predictive value of preoperative variables for seizure outcome was assessed. RESULTS: Engel I seizure freedom was achieved in 55.8% (149/267) at 1 year, 52.5% (126/240) at 2 years and 49.3% (132/268) at the last follow-up ≥1 year (median 47 months). Engel I or II outcomes were achieved in 74.2% (198/267) at 1 year, 75.0% (180/240) at 2 years and 66.0% (177/268) at the last follow-up. Preoperative focal to bilateral tonic-clonic seizures were independently associated with seizure recurrence. Among patients with seizure recurrence, 14/21 (66.7%) became seizure-free after subsequent ATL and 5/10 (50%) after repeat MRgLITT at last follow-up≥1 year. CONCLUSIONS: MRgLITT is a viable treatment with durable outcomes for patients with drug-resistant mTLE evaluated at a comprehensive epilepsy centre. Although seizure freedom rates were lower than reported with ATL, this series represents the early experience of each centre and a heterogeneous cohort. ATL remains a safe and effective treatment for well-selected patients who fail MRgLITT.

Association of prolonged symptom duration with poor outcomes in lumbar spine surgery: a Michigan Spine Surgery Improvement Collaborative study.

OBJECTIVE: There is a scarcity of large multicenter data on how preoperative lumbar symptom duration relates to postoperative patient-reported outcomes (PROs). The objective of this study was to determine the effect of preoperative and baseline symptom duration on PROs at 90 days, 1 year, and 2 years after lumbar spine surgery. METHODS: The Michigan Spine Surgery Improvement Collaborative registry was queried for all lumbar spine operations between January 1, 2017, to December 31, 2021, with a follow-up of 2 years. Patients were stratified into three subgroups based on symptom duration: < 3 months, 3 months to < 1 year, and ≥ 1 year. The primary outcomes were reaching the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for the PROs (i.e., leg pain, Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Physical Function (PROMIS PF), EQ-5D, North American Spine Society satisfaction, and return to work). The EQ-5D score was also analyzed as a continuous variable to calculate quality-adjusted life years. Multivariable Poisson generalized estimating equation models were used to report adjusted risk ratios, with the < 3-month cohort used as the reference. RESULTS: There were 37,223 patients (4670 with < 3-month duration, 9356 with 3-month to < 1-year duration, and 23,197 with ≥ 1-year duration) available for analysis. Compared with patients with a symptom duration of < 1 year, patients with a symptom duration of ≥ 1 year were significantly less likely to achieve an MCID in PROMIS PF, EQ-5D, back pain relief, and leg pain relief at 90 days, 1 year, and 2 years postoperatively. Similar trends were observed for patient satisfaction and return to work. With the EQ-5D score as a continuous variable, a symptom duration of ≥ 1 year was associated with 0.04, 0.05, and 0.03 (p < 0.001) decreases in EQ-5D score at 90 days, 1 year, and 2 years after surgery, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: A symptom duration of ≥ 1 year was associated with poorer outcomes on several outcome metrics. This suggests that timely referral and surgery for degenerative lumbar pathology may optimize patient outcome.

Multiorganizational consensus to define guiding principles for perioperative pain management in patients with chronic pain, preoperative opioid tolerance, or substance use disorder.

Significant knowledge gaps exist in the perioperative pain management of patients with a history of chronic pain, substance use disorder, and/or opioid tolerance as highlighted in the US Health and Human Services Pain Management Best Practices Inter-Agency Task Force 2019 report. The report emphasized the challenges of caring for these populations and the need for multidisciplinary care and a comprehensive approach. Such care requires stakeholder alignment across multiple specialties and care settings. With the intention of codifying this alignment into a reliable and efficient processes, a consortium of 15 professional healthcare societies was convened in a year-long modified Delphi consensus process and summit. This process produced seven guiding principles for the perioperative care of patients with chronic pain, substance use disorder, and/or preoperative opioid tolerance. These principles provide a framework and direction for future improvement in the optimization and care of 'complex' patients as they undergo surgical procedures.

The Potential Negative Effects of Smoking on Cervical and Lumbar Surgery Beyond Pseudarthrosis: A Michigan Spine Surgery Improvement Collaborative Study.

OBJECTIVE: To review the Michigan Spine Surgery Improvement Collaborative registry to investigate the long-term associations between current smoking status and outcomes after elective cervical and lumbar spine surgery. METHODS: Using the Michigan Spine Surgery Improvement Collaborative, we captured all cases from January 1, 2017, to November 21, 2020, with outcomes data available; 19,251 lumbar cases and 7936 cervical cases were included. Multivariate regression analyses were performed to assess the relationship of smoking with the clinical outcomes. RESULTS: Current smoking status was associated with lower urinary retention and satisfaction for patients after lumbar surgery and was associated with less likelihood of achieving minimal clinically important difference in primary outcome measures including Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System, back pain, leg pain, and EuroQol-5D at 90 days and 1 year after surgery. Current smokers were also less likely to return to work at 90 days and 1 year after surgery. Among patients who underwent cervical surgery, current smokers were less likely to have urinary retention and dysphagia postoperatively. They were less likely to be satisfied with the surgery outcome at 1 year. Current smoking was associated with lower likelihood of achieving minimal clinically important difference in Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System, neck pain, arm pain, and EuroQol-5D at various time points. There was no difference in return-to-work status. CONCLUSIONS: Our analysis suggests that smoking is negatively associated with functional improvement, patient satisfaction, and return-to-work after elective spine surgery.

Correlation of mJOA, PROMIS physical function, and patient satisfaction in patients with cervical myelopathy: an analysis of the Michigan Spine Surgery Improvement Collaborative (MSSIC) database.

BACKGROUND CONTEXT: Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are increasingly utilized to evaluate the efficacy and value of spinal procedures. Among patients with cervical myelopathy, the modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association (mJOA) remains the standard instrument, with Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) physical function (PF) and patient satisfaction also frequently assessed. These outcomes have not all been directly compared using a large spine registry at 2 years follow-up for cervical myelopathic patients undergoing surgery. PURPOSE: To determine the correlation and association of PROMIS PF, mJOA, and patient satisfaction outcomes in patients undergoing surgery for cervical myelopathy. STUDY DESIGN/SETTING: Retrospective review of a multicenter spine registry database. PATIENT SAMPLE: Adult patients with cervical myelopathy who underwent cervical spine surgery between 2/26/2018 and 4/17/2021. OUTCOME MEASURES: PROMIS PF, mJOA, and North American Spine Society (NASS) patient satisfaction index. METHODS: The MSSIC database was accessed to gather pre- and postoperative outcome data on patients with cervical myelopathy. Spearman's correlation coefficients relating mJOA and PROMIS PF were quantified up to 2 years postoperatively. The correlations between patient satisfaction with mJOA and PROMIS were determined. Kappa statistics were used to evaluate for agreement between those reaching the minimum clinically important difference (MCID) for mJOA and PROMIS PF. Odds ratios were calculated to determine the association between patient satisfaction and those reaching MCID for mJOA and PROMIS PF. Support for MSSIC is provided by BCBSM and Blue Care Network as part of the BCBSM Value Partnerships program. RESULTS: Data from 2,023 patients were included. Moderate to strong correlations were found between mJOA and PROMIS PF at all time points (p<.001). These outcomes had fair agreement at all postoperative time points when comparing those who reached MCID. Satisfaction was strongly related to changes from baseline for both mJOA and PROMIS PF at all time points (p<.001). Odds ratios associating satisfaction with PROMIS PF MCID were higher at all time points compared with mJOA, although the differences were not significant. CONCLUSIONS: PROMIS PF has a strong positive correlation with mJOA up to 2 years postoperatively in patients undergoing surgery for cervical myelopathy, with similar odds of achieving MCID with both instruments. Patient satisfaction is predicted similarly by these outcome measures by 2 years postoperatively. These results affirm the validity of PROMIS PF in the cervical myelopathic population. Given its generalizability and ease of use, PROMIS PF may be a more practical outcome measure for clinical use compared with mJOA.

Rates and reasons for reoperation within 30 and 90 days following cervical spine surgery: a retrospective cohort analysis of the Michigan Spine Surgery Improvement Collaborative (MSSIC) registry.

BACKGROUND CONTEXT: Reoperation following cervical spinal surgery negatively impacts patient outcomes and increases health care system burden. To date, most studies have evaluated reoperations within 30 days after spine surgery and have been limited in scope and focus. Evaluation within the 90-day period, however, allows a more comprehensive assessment of factors associated with reoperation. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to assess the rates and reasons for reoperations after cervical spine surgery within 30 and 90 days. DESIGN: We performed a retrospective analysis of a state-wide prospective, multi-center, spine-specific database of patients surgically treated for degenerative disease. PATIENT SAMPLE: Patients 18 years of age or older who underwent cervical spine surgery for degenerative pathologies from February 2014 to May 2019. Operative criteria included all degenerative cervical spine procedures, including those with cervical fusions with contiguous extension down to T3. OUTCOME MEASURES: We determined causes for reoperation and independent surgical and demographic risk factors impacting reoperation. METHODS: Patient-specific and surgery-specific data was extracted from the registry using ICD-10-DM codes. Reoperations data was obtained through abstraction of medical records through 90 days. Univariate analysis was done using chi-square tests for categorical variables, t-tests for normally distributed variables, and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests for variables with skewed distributions. Odds ratios for return to the operating room (OR) were evaluated in multivariate analysis. RESULTS: A total of 13,435 and 13,440 patients underwent cervical spine surgery and were included in the 30 and 90-day analysis, respectively. The overall reoperation rate was 1.24% and 3.30% within 30 and 90 days, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed within 30 days, procedures involving four or more levels, posterior only approach, and longer length of stay had increased odds of returning to the OR (p<.05), whereas private insurance had a decreased odds of return to OR (p<.05). Within 90 days, male sex, coronary artery disease (CAD), previous spine surgery, procedures with 4 or more levels, and longer length of stay had significantly increased odds of returning to the OR (p<.05). Non-white race, independent ambulatory status pre-operatively, and having private insurance had decreased odds of return to the OR (p<.05). The most common specified reasons for return to the OR within 30 days was hematoma (19%), infection (17%), and wound dehiscence (11%). Within 90 days, reoperation reasons were pain (10%), infection (9%), and hematoma (8%). CONCLUSION: Reoperation rates after elective cervical spine surgery are 1.24% and 3.30% within 30 and 90 days, respectively. Within 30 days, four or more levels, posterior approach, and longer length of stay were risk factors for reoperation. Within 90 days, male sex, CAD, four or more levels, and longer length of hospital stay were risk factors for reoperation. Non-white demographic and independent preoperative ambulatory status were associated with decreased reoperation rates.

Postoperative opioid prescription and patient-reported outcomes after elective spine surgery: a Michigan Spine Surgery Improvement Collaborative study.

OBJECTIVE: This study was designed to assess how postoperative opioid prescription dosage could affect patient-reported outcomes after elective spine surgery. METHODS: Patients enrolled in the Michigan Spine Surgery Improvement Collaborative (MSSIC) from January 2020 to September 2021 were included in this study. Opioid prescriptions at discharge were converted to total morphine milligram equivalents (MME). A reference value of 225 MME per week was used as a cutoff. Patients were divided into two cohorts based on prescribed total MME: ≤ 225 MME and > 225 MME. Primary outcomes included patient satisfaction, return to work status after surgery, and whether improvement of the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) of the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System 4-question short form for physical function (PROMIS PF) and EQ-5D was met. Generalized estimated equations were used for multivariate analysis. RESULTS: Regression analysis revealed that patients who had postoperative opioids prescribed with > 225 MME were less likely to be satisfied with surgery (adjusted OR [aOR] 0.81) and achieve PROMIS PF MCID (aOR 0.88). They were also more likely to be opioid dependent at 90 days after elective spine surgery (aOR 1.56). CONCLUSIONS: The opioid epidemic is a serious threat to national public health, and spine surgeons must practice conscientious postoperative opioid prescribing to achieve adequate pain control. The authors' analysis illustrates that a postoperative opioid prescription of 225 MME or less is associated with improved patient satisfaction, greater improvement in physical function, and decreased opioid dependence compared with those who had > 225 MME prescribed.

Telehealth in Neurosurgery: 2021 Council of State Neurosurgical Societies National Survey Results.

OBJECTIVE: Telehealth was rapidly adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic. A survey was distributed to neurosurgeons in the United States (U.S.) to understand its use within neurosurgery, what barriers exist, unique issues related to neurosurgery, and opportunities for improvement. METHODS: A survey was distributed via email and used the SurveyMonkey platform. The survey was sent to 3828 practicing neurosurgeons within the U.S., 404 responses were collected between October 30, 2021 and December 4, 2021. RESULTS: During the pandemic, telehealth was used multiple times per week by 60.65% and used daily by an additional 12.78% of respondents. A supermajority (89.84%) of respondents felt that evaluating patients across state lines with telemedicine is beneficial. Most respondents (95.81%) believed that telehealth improves patient access to care. The major criticism of telehealth was the inability to perform a neurological exam. CONCLUSIONS: Telehealth has been widely implemented within the field of neurosurgery during the COVID-19 pandemic and has increased access to care. It has allowed patients to be evaluated remotely, including across state lines. While certain aspects of the neurological exam are suited for video evaluation, sensation and reflexes cannot be adequately assessed. Neurosurgeons believe that telehealth adds value to their ability to deliver care.

Adjuvant medical therapy in cervical dystonia after deep brain stimulation: A retrospective analysis.

Background: There is limited information on optimization of symptomatic management of cervical dystonia (CD) after implantation of pallidal deep brain stimulation (DBS). Objectives: To describe the long-term, "real-world" management of CD patients after DBS implantation and the role of reintroduction of pharmacologic and botulinum toxin (BoNT) therapy. Methods: A retrospective analysis of patients with focal cervical or segmental craniocervical dystonia implanted with DBS was conducted. Results: Nine patients were identified with a mean follow-up of 41.7 ± 15.7 months. All patients continued adjuvant oral medication(s) to optimize symptom control post-operatively. Three stopped BoNT and four reduced BoNT dose by an average of 22%. All patients remained on at least one medication used to treat dystonia post-operatively. Conclusion: Optimal symptom control was achieved with DBS combined with either BoNT and/or medication. We suggest utilization of adjuvant therapies such as BoNT and/or medications if DBS monotherapy does not achieve optimal symptom control.