Release of updated evidenced-based guidelines for the surgical care of degenerative lumbar spinal conditions by the CNS/AANS Spine Section includes relevant literature since the 2005 published guidelines, and a 5-tier level of evidence approach for the 16 subtopics was used for objective evidence distinctions. Forty-five updated recommendations (Grades “A” to “C” and “I” for insufficient) are provided based on the supporting evidence strength. Key highlights include analysis of new health-related and economic outcome studies following (i) fusion for stenosis with/without spondylolisthesis and (ii) use of bone graft extenders and substitutes. This rigorous synthesis of the best available current evidence is an invaluable reference.
Source
Journal of Neurosurgery