Spine Surgeon Treatment Variability: The Impact on Costs.

ABSTRACT:

Study design

Cross-sectional analysis.

Objectives

Given the lack of strong evidence/guidelines on appropriate treatment for lumbar spine disease, substantial variability exists among surgical treatments utilized, which is associated with differences in costs to treat a given pathology. Our goal was to investigate the variability in costs among spine surgeons nationally for the same pathology in similar patients.

Methods

Four hundred forty-five spine surgeons completed a survey of clinical and radiographic case scenarios on patients with recurrent lumbar disc herniation, low back pain, and spondylolisthesis. Those surveyed were asked to provide various details including their geographical location, specialty, and fellowship training. Treatment options included no surge

SUBMITTER: Alvin MD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6149049 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature