We have groundbreaking news to share this week for spine surgery patients. A new study, published in the Feb. 1 edition of the scholarly journal Spine, found that lumbar discectomy patients treated in hospitals had a nearly 85% percent increase in complications.

The study’s authors, led by Andrew J. Pugely, MD, at the University of Iowa, reviewed the records of more than 4,000 lumbar discectomy patients from the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database. Their analysis showed that hospital-based surgery patients were more likely to experience wound infections or require additional surgery.

In short: outpatient spine surgery, such as the minimally invasive procedures performed at Spine Institute Northwest, is safer for patients, because they experience fewer complications. Readers may wish to review the study’s abstract or full article text here. Below we’ve drafted a brief “FAQ” — by Dr. Solomon Kamson, MD, PhD, for our readers.

Lumbar Discectomy Study Frequently Asked Questions

What is the NSQIP? The National Surgical Improvement Quality Program was created in 2005 by the American College of Surgeons to improve surgical quality and outcomes. Nearly 500 hospitals across the United States participate in the NSIQP database.

How many patients participated in the study? The study reviewed the cases of 4,310 lumbar discectomy (spine surgery) patients who underwent the procedure between 2005 and 2010.

What did the study look for? The study examined the incidence of and risk factors for short-term complications (i.e., within 30 days of surgery) following single level lumbar discectomy. The study also took into account other risk factors such as elevated age, diabetes, previous wound infections, blood transfusion, prolonged operative time, etc..

What did the study’s results find? Nearly 2/3, of discectomies (or 2,658 procedures) were performed on an inpatient basis, and this population had a 6.5% complication rate compared to 3.5% for outpatients (1,652 discectomies). So, by performing the procedure in an outpatient setting, the patient’s risk of complication was significantly reduced.

What did the study’s authors conclude? Patients undergoing outpatient lumbar discectomy had lower overall complication rates than those treated in hospitals. Surgeons should consider outpatient surgery for lumbar discectomy in appropriate candidates.

Final note from Dr. Kamson: This study simply underscores and reinforces our commitment to minimally invasive surgery at Spine Institute Northwest. Our philosophy has always been that less is better, and to utilize less invasive surgery and treatments to help patients at our outpatient facilities.

-Dr. Solomon Kamson, MD, PhD