New model predicts complications after spinal cord compression surgery

Editor's Note

A new model consisting of four risk factors can help surgeons predict the risk of complications after surgery for cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM), this multi-center study finds.

Surgical CSM patients have a higher risk of perioperative complications if they have a greater number of comorbidities, coexisting diabetes mellitus, longer operative duration, and ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament.

Surgeons can use this information to discuss the risks and benefits with their patients, plan preventive strategies, and ensure appropriate perioperative management, the authors say.

Tetreault, Lindsay BSc; Tan, Gamaliel; Kopjar, Branko MD, PhD; Côté, Pierre DC, PhD; Arnold, Paul MD, PhD; Nugaeva, Natalia; Barbagallo, Giuseppe; Fehlings, Michael G. MD, PhD, FRCSC Cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) is a progressive degenerative cervical spine disease and the most common cause of spinal cord dysfunction in the elderly worldwide.