Variation in surgical decision making for degenerative spinal disorders. Part II: cervical spine.

Study Design: Survey-based descriptive study.

Objective: To study relationships between surgeon-specific factors and surgical approach to degenerative diseases of the cervical spine.

Summary Of Background Data: Geographic variations in the rates of cervical spine surgery are significant within the United States.

Variation in surgical decision making for degenerative spinal disorders. Part I: lumbar spine.

Study Design: Survey-based descriptive study.

Objective: To study relationships between surgeon-specific factors and surgical approach to degenerative diseases of the lumbar spine.

Summary Of Background Data: Geographic variations in the rates of lumbar spine surgery are significant within the United States.

Variations in injury patterns, treatment, and outcome for spinal fracture and paralysis in adult versus geriatric patients.

Study Design: Retrospective cohort analysis of hospital discharge and mortality data for spinal fracture and spinal cord injury patients in a single state from 1990 to 1995.

Objectives: Population-based review of preinjury patient factors, injury and treatment patterns, and in-hospital versus 60-day mortality in adult and geriatric spinal injury patients.

Summary Of Background Data: While population-based analyses of hospitalized injured patients indicate that geriatric patients are at higher risk for adverse outcome, less is known about the specific subset of patients with spinal fracture and spinal cord injury.