Subgrouping patients with sciatica in primary care for matched care pathways: development of a subgrouping algorithm.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Sciatica is a painful condition managed by a stepped care approach for most patients. Currently, there are no decision-making tools to guide matching care pathways for patients with sciatica without evidence of serious pathology, early in their presentation. This study sought to develop an algorithm to subgroup primary care patients with sciatica, for initial decision-making for matched care pathways, including fast-track referral to investigations and specialist spinal opinion.

Methods

This was an analysis of existing data from a UK NHS cohort study of patients consulting in primary care with sciatica (n = 429). Factors potentially associated with referral to specialist services, were identified from the literature and clinical opinion. Percentage of patients fas

SUBMITTER: Konstantinou K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6611047 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature