Lumbar spondylolisthesis: Generating meaningful comparative evidence for selecting approach: Registries: What are We Learning?

Abstract

Controversy regarding optimal surgical management of degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis continues despite multiple randomized controlled trials. To this effect a number of registries have been developed, some neurosurgery and spine specific, in an effort to examine patient- and procedure- related factors and their impact on post-operative outcomes. Registries are powerful tools in understanding trends in surgery as well as the safety profile and efficacy of procedures for lumbar spondylolisthesis. This chapter reviews three major registries, NIS, NSQIP, and QOD, and their merits.