Cost-Effectiveness Of Different Treatment Modalities Of Lumbar Spondylolisthesis

Abstract

Background: Lumbar spondylolisthesis is defined as the displacement of one lumbar vertebra over another, which often causes nerve root pressure and various symptoms including low back pain, numbness, tingling, discomfort, stiffness, and muscular tightness.The lumbar region of the spine comprises five vertebrae (L1-L5) and S1, intervertebral discs, facet joints, pars interarticularis, foramina, spinal canal, discs, transverse process, and muscles. So, understanding the spine’s structure is crucial for figuring out what is causing the issue. Lumbar spondylolisthesis can result from a variety of circumstances. SPL’s complex aetiology includes inflammatory joint illnesses, repeated stress, hereditary susceptibility, fractures, wear and tear, and abnormalities in the pars interarticularis.

Methodology: Lumbar Spondylolisthesis is the most prominent condition seen in the Department of Neurosurgery and Orthopedics. We conducted a prospective observational study of patients(n=200) diagnosed with Lumbar spondylolisthesis. The data was gathered and examined using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) score. Various diagnostic tests were performed to confirm SPL. Surgical treatment included 7 types of surgeries. In Conservative Management, antacids, NSAIDs, analgesics, corticosteroid injections, muscle relaxants, neuropathic drugs, braces, and physiotherapy were used to treat SPL. Finally, the cost of surgical and conservative therapy was estimated to find the cost-effectiveness of Lumbar Spondylolisthesis.

Results: Out of 200 patients, 118 were treated with Conservative Management and 82 had Surgical Management. Conservative management is considered less cost-effective, being 16.58% of the total expenditure. Contrarily, surgical management, which constitutes a sizable part of 83.42% of the total expenditure, is deemed more cost-effective.

Conclusion: Therefore, there is a need for study to create awareness and provide knowledge about the costs and cost-effectiveness of various lumbar spondylolisthesis treatment choices