ArticleInternational journal of spine surgery2025
Postoperative Brace Prescription Practices for Elective Lumbar Spine Surgery: A Questionnaire-Based Study of Spine Surgeons in Japan.
Article in International journal of spine surgery, 2025. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Cited by 2 papers.
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Who cites it
2 citing papers in PubMed.
- Mechanical behavior of elastic abdominal binders and semi-rigid corsets under patient-applied forces and physiologically relevant loading.Hernia : the journal of hernias and abdominal wall surgery · 2026Observational
- Brace yourself: routine postoperative bracing after adult spinal deformity surgery offers no clinical benefit and may increase harm.Journal of spine surgery (Hong Kong) · 2025Article
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Authors and funding
13 authors.
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Abstract
introductionThe efficacy of postoperative braces for degenerative lumbar disorders has long been debated, with conflicting reports regarding the promotion of bone fusion and pain relief. The current aspects of postoperative brace prescriptions have been previously reported in Western countries but not in Asia. This study aimed to elucidate prescription practices in Japan and identify factors influencing prescription decisions. MATERIALS AND
methodsThe survey was conducted at a spine group research meeting comprising spine surgeons from multiple institutions. The questionnaire assessed aspects of postoperative brace prescription, including the type, purpose, and duration of usage, categorized by surgical procedures for degenerative lumbar disorders: endoscopic decompression, open surgery decompression, and fusion involving 1 or more than 3 levels. The respondents' backgrounds, scientific knowledge of postoperative braces, nonscientific reasons, and basis for prescription decisions were also investigated.
resultsThere were 63 valid responses. The overall postoperative brace prescription rate was 83%, with 66% for decompression and 98% for fusion procedures, surpassing the rates reported in Western studies. The primary prescription purpose was to slow down patient activity (83%, double the previously reported rates). Prescription rates for endoscopic and open surgical decompression were significantly correlated with facility attributes and annual number of surgeries. Scientific knowledge of postoperative braces was lacking in 56% of respondents, with scientific evidence being the least frequent decision for brace prescription (14%). Nonscientific reasons influenced the prescription decisions of 84% of participants.
conclusionThe postoperative brace prescription rate among spine surgeons in Japan was significantly higher than that in Western studies, largely due to nonscientific factors such as physician reassurance and the intention to slow down patient activity. Comprehensive, evidence-based guidelines are needed regarding consistent brace usage to optimize patient outcomes. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study highlights the high postoperative brace prescription rates among spine surgeons in Japan, which are significantly influenced by nonscientific factors, such as tradition, physician reassurance, and patient satisfaction, rather than scientific evidence. These findings underscore the need for evidence-based guidelines to improve consistency in postoperative brace usage. The results are particularly relevant in regions with aging populations and a high prevalence of osteoporosis, providing insights for improving postoperative management strategies and patient outcomes in Japan as well as in similar demographic settings globally. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4:
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