Predictors of functional outcome in elderly patients undergoing posterior lumbar spine surgery

To ascertain the predictors of functional outcome in elderly patients under going posterior lumbar spinal decompression and fusion, a modified low back outcome score questionnaire survey in 83 elderly patients (49 men, 34 wome n) was carried out at our hospital. The average follow-up was 35.8 months ( range: 22-57 months). The outcomes were as follows: excellent to good, 83% fair, 7%. and poor, 10%. Multiple regression analysis revealed that signifi cant predictors of unfavorable outcome included coexistence of other bone a nd joint degenerative disorders (p < 0.001) and history of heart disease (p < 0.01). Patients Who had undergone previous lumbar surgery had significan tly lower modified low back outcome score than those without previous lumba r spine Surgery (p < 0.05). The modified low back outcome score questionnai re system is a reliable method in elderly patients.