To evaluate the level of health resource utilisation by patients after lumbar total disc replacement (TDR) for mechanical low back pain. At our centre, 35 patients underwent TDR and were followed prospectively from surgery. All surgery was performed by the senior author. Patients were followed routinely in clinic at yearly intervals. In addition, the patients and their GPs were contacted via telephone. Information gathered included ODI and VAS, satisfaction with surgery and return to work. We specifically established whether the patients continued to seek healthcare, for persistent back symptoms, from professionals (both NHS and private) including their GP, pain clinic, physiotherapist, acupuncturist, chiropractor or another spinal surgeon, and had any further interventions.Aim
Method
Prospectively evaluate the timescale of leg pain resolution after lumbar discectomy and decompression, in the immediate post-operative period and identify possible risk factors for failure/delay in leg pain resolution. A prospective observational study of 100 consecutive patients undergoing lumbar discectomy or decompression. Patients recorded their leg and back pain in VAS and disability in ODI preoperatively. Patients rated their leg pain relief just prior to discharge after surgery. Telephone follow-up at 1-2 week and 3-4 week post-op was followed by clinic review at 6 and 12 weeks, to assess the timescale of leg pain resolution and improvement in function (ODI score).Purpose
Materials and Methods
NICE guidance on lumbar total disc replacement (TDR) recommends ongoing audit should be an integral part of disc replacement surgery. We present our ongoing audit data and the extent of problem of patients lost to follow up. 35 patients underwent lumbar TDR surgery over 4.5 years. They were followed prospectively. A database is maintained and ODI and VAS were collected prospectively, including patient satisfaction and any failures.Aim
Method
