A new study published in Spine examines the survival rate after surgical intervention for spinal metastases.
The study authors examined patient records for all patients who underwent surgery for metastatic spinal disease at one of four academic medical center in New England from 2007 to 2013. There were 318 patients who were examined in the study. They examined the 30-day and 90-day survival rate.
Here are five key findings:
1. The type of cancer didn't influence the odds of 30-day survival.
2. Nutritional status and ambulatory capacity increased the 30-day survival rate.
3. The patients with lung cancer decreased the 90-day survival rate odd after surgery.
4. Ambulatory function and nutritional status were significantly associated with improved 90-day survival rate.
5. The study authors concluded, "Improved nutritional status and ambulatory function may enhance postoperative survival among individuals who undergo surgical intervention for spinal metastases."