Depressive symptoms are associated with poor outcome for lumbar spine surgery

Conclusion Different types of depressive symptoms are associated with poor outcome after lumbar spine surgery. The outcome was worst in patients suffering from the MDS subtype. This was observed in pain intensity, functional disability and response to pain medication. Implication It would be important to evaluate depression pre- and postoperatively. Offering a tailored rehabilitation programme to MDS patients should be considered.
Source: Scandinavian Journal of Pain - Category: Anesthesiology Source Type: research