Surgery of the Lumbar Spine for Spinal Stenosis in 118 Patients 70 Years of Age or Older

Abstract

A consecutive case retrospective chart review and an outcome satisfaction questionnaire were used in this study. To provide a surgical reference for surgeons and elderly patients who may have concerns regarding the safety and outcome of lumbar spine surgery in their age population. Elderly patients scheduled for spine surgery have a major concern about the safety and outcome of the procedure in light of their advanced age. A review of the literature demonstrated conflicting results regarding the outcome of lumbar spine surgery for spinal stenosis in the elderly. A retrospective review evaluated 118 consecutive patients ages 70 to 101 years who were managed surgically for lumbar spinal stenosis. This patient population was analyzed for the operative procedure, postoperative morbidity and mortality, and long-term clinical outcome and satisfaction. All 118 patients had at least a 2-year follow-up evaluation, and 21 of these patients were older than 80 years. Clinical parameters were compiled and analyzed on the basis of chart review. Overall morbidity occurred in 24 patients (20%). During the study period, the average length of hospitalization declined an average of 2 days. Of the 118 patients, 109 expressed satisfaction with the operation and resumed daily activities, whereas 9 had fair or poor results. Advanced age did not increase the morbidity associated with this operation because the results reported in this study are comparable with those from other studies of a younger population, nor did advanced age decrease patient satisfaction or return to activities.