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European Spine Journal
Published in: European Spine Journal 1/2005

01-02-2005 | Original Article

The risk of “getting worse” after lumbar microdiscectomy

Authors: Tore K. Solberg, Øystein P. Nygaard, Kristin Sjaavik, Dag Hofoss, Tor Ingebrigtsen

Published in: European Spine Journal | Issue 1/2005

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Abstract

A frequent concern among patients operated for lumbar disc herniation is the risk of “getting worse”. To give an evidence-based estimate of the risk for worsening has been difficult, since previous studies have been more focused on unfavourable outcome in general, rather than on deterioration in particular. In this prospective study of 180 patients, we report the frequency of and the risk factors for getting worse after first time lumbar microdiscectomy. Follow-up time was 12 months. Primary outcome measure was the Oswestry disability index, assessing functional status and health-related quality of life. Of the patients 4% got worse. Independent risk factors of deterioration were a long duration of sick leave and a better functional status and quality of life prior to operation. We conclude that the risk of deterioration is small, but larger if the patient has been unable to work despite relatively small health problems. This study also demonstrates that changes in instrument scores should be reported, so that an accurate failure rate can be assessed.
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Metadata
Title
The risk of “getting worse” after lumbar microdiscectomy
Authors
Tore K. Solberg
Øystein P. Nygaard
Kristin Sjaavik
Dag Hofoss
Tor Ingebrigtsen
Publication date
01-02-2005
Publisher
Springer-Verlag
Published in
European Spine Journal / Issue 1/2005
Print ISSN: 0940-6719
Electronic ISSN: 1432-0932
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00586-004-0721-5

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