Lumbar Fusion Outcomes in the Work Comp Setting
Lumbar Fusion Outcomes in the Work Comp Setting
The state of Washington performed a retrospective study of injured workers who underwent lumbar fusion. There were 1,950 eligible claimants who underwent surgery. The study was prompted by the escalating number of lumbar fusions being performed nationally. The study evaluated complications, re-operation rates, and disability.
Following lumbar fusion, the disability rate reported was 63.9%. 22.1% of subjects studied required re-operation and other complications were listed at 11.8%. The use of cases and/or instrumentation did not improve disability rates or re-operation rates. Not surprisingly, the presence of legal issues, psychological issues, and involvement of the Work Comp system predicted a higher rate of disability.
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