• Carrie E Brintz, Rogelio A Coronado, David G Schlundt, Christine Haug Jenkins, Mackenzie L Bird, Jordan A Bley, Jacquelyn S Pennings, Stephen T Wegener, and Kristin R Archer.
• Department of Anesthesiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN.
• Spine. 2023 Jul 15; 48 (14): E235E244E235-E244.

Study DesignQualitative interview study.ObjectiveThe aim was to develop a conceptual model for Spine Surgery Recovery in order to better understand why patients undergo lumbar spine surgery and what factors influence patient satisfaction.Summary Of Background DataQuantitative studies have assessed patients' expectations for lumbar spine surgery outcomes, with greater expectation fulfillment leading to higher satisfaction. However, there is limited literature using qualitative methods to understand the patient perspective from the decision to undergo lumbar spine surgery through long-term recovery.Materials And MethodsSemistructured phone interviews were conducted with 20 participants (nine females, mean age ±SD=61.2±11.1 yr) and three focus groups with 12 participants (nine females, mean age ±SD=62.0±10.9 yr). Sessions were audio recorded and transcribed. Two independent researchers coded the transcripts using a hierarchical coding system. Major themes were identified and a conceptual model was developed.ResultsA total of 1355 coded quotes were analyzed. The decision to have lumbar spine surgery was influenced by chronic pain impact on daily function, pain coping, and patient expectations. Results demonstrated that fulfilled expectations and setting realistic expectations are key factors for patient satisfaction after surgery, while less known constructs of accepting limitations, adjusting expectations, and optimism were found by many patients to be essential for a successful recovery. Emotional factors of fear, anxiety, and depression were important aspects of presurgical and postsurgical experiences.ConclusionOur Spine Surgery Recovery conceptual model provides guidance for future research and clinical practice to optimize treatment and improve overall patient satisfaction. Recommendations based on this model include the assessment of patient expectations and mental well-being throughout postoperative recovery as well as preoperatively to help set realistic expectations and improve satisfaction. Educational, acceptance-based or positive psychological interventions may be potentially beneficial for addressing key factors identified in this model.Copyright © 2022 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

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