The clinical status of patients with Lumbar Spinal Stenosis(LSS) reflects their individual decision to undergo or defer Lumbar Spinal Surgery (LSS)

Title : The clinical status of patients with Lumbar Spinal Stenosis(LSS) reflects their individual decision to undergo or defer Lumbar Spinal Surgery (LSS)

Abstract:

Lumbar Spinal Stenosis (LSS) is a prevalent degenerative spinal condition often leading patients to consider surgical intervention. However, the decision to undergo surgery is not always determined by objective clinical severity. This study explored whether the clinical status of individuals with LSS aligns with their personal choice to proceed with or defer lumbar spinal surgery.

In a multicenter cohort involving both orthopedic and rehabilitation settings, we assessed physical function, pain levels, and quality of life in patients electing for surgery versus those who opted for non-surgical management. Surprisingly, results indicated that many patients with comparable clinical presentations made contrasting treatment decisions. Factors influencing these choices included subjective pain perception, psychosocial context, lifestyle considerations, and trust in medical advice.

Our findings underscore the necessity of a patient-centered approach in managing LSS. Shared decision-making, informed by both clinical findings and patient preferences, is essential for optimizing outcomes and aligning care with individual values. This presentation will discuss the study's methodology, key insights, and their implications for orthopedic surgeons, physiotherapists, and multidisciplinary spine care teams.

Keywords: Lumbar Spinal Stenosis; Patient Decision-Making; Spine Surgery; Shared Decision-Making; Clinical Outcomes; Rehabilitation; Orthopedic Care

Biography:

Professor Youssef Masharawi is an Associate Professor in the Department of Physical Therapy at Tel Aviv University. A licensed physiotherapist, he specializes in spinal disorders, integrating manual therapy, biomechanics, and rehabilitation science. He holds a Ph.D. in Anatomy and Anthropology from Tel Aviv University and completed postdoctoral research in Denmark. He leads the Spinal Research Laboratory, focusing on clinical, functional, and epidemiological aspects of spinal health. Professor Masharawi has published extensively, teaches undergraduate and graduate courses, and mentors research students. He also promotes diversity as head of the Arab Integration Committee at Tel Aviv University and is active in international spine research societies.