Study Design. A prospective, observational study.
Objectives. To identify outcome predictors of surgery for degenerative lumb
ar spinal stenosis.
Summary of Background Data. Degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis is the most
frequent indication for spine surgery in the elderly. More than 25% of sur
gical patients have a poor outcome, yet little is known about factors that
predict the outcome of surgery.
Methods. Surgery was performed on 199 patients with degenerative lumbar spi
nal stenosis, and they were observed for 2 years after surgery in four refe
rral centers. Surgery consisted of decompressive laminectomy with or withou
t arthrodesis. Outcomes included validated measures of symptom severity, wa
lking capacity, and satisfaction with the results of surgery. Potential pre
dictors of outcome included sociodemographic factors and physical examinati
on, as well as radiographic, psychological, social, and clinical history va
riables.
Results. The proportion of patients with severe pain decreased from 81% bef
ore surgery to 31% by 2 years afterward. The most powerful preoperation pre
dictor of greater walking capacity, milder symptoms, and greater satisfacti
on was the patient's report of good or excellent health before surgery. Low
cardiovascular comorbidity also predicted a favorable outcome.
Conclusions. Patients' assessments of their own health and comorbidity are
the most cogent outcome predictors of surgery for spinal stenosis.