The Use of Orthosis Post Adult Spine Deformity Surgeries: A systematic review and Meta-analysis

Introduction: The use of orthosis post adult spine deformity surgeries is a crucial aspect of postoperative care. Adult spine deformities, such as scoliosis or kyphosis, often require complex surgical interventions to correct alignment and alleviate pain. Orthoses, which include braces or support devices, provide external stabilization, reduce strain on surgical hardware, and support the healing process. While their efficacy is well-documented in pediatric cases, their role in adult deformity surgery recovery is a topic of ongoing research, aiming to optimize patient outcomes and long-term spinal health.

Methods: A systematic review and meta analysis was done by searching in Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), PubMed, MEDLINE (including MEDLINE InProcess) (OvidSP), Web of Science, Embase (OvidSP), and Scopus databases. ROB2 Cochrane tools assessment for RCTs. In the analysis, we used RevMan Cochrane software.

Results: 6 studies were included; they were either cross sectional studies or retrospective studies. The total number of patients were 911 participants (males and females). Heterogeneity for the Progression-Free survival: Tau² = 0.0003; Chi² = 2.35, df = 5 (P = 0.37); I² = 7% and Test for overall effect: Z = 2.45 (P = 0.0006). Heterogeneity for overall survival rate: Tau² = 0.00; Chi² = 4.58, df = 5 (P = 0.47); I² = 0% and Test for overall effect: Z = 4.95 (P < 0.00001).

Conclusion : In conclusion, the use of orthosis post adult spine deformity surgeries plays a crucial role in enhancing patient outcomes and ensuring successful surgical interventions. These devices provide vital support, stability, and alignment to the spine during the critical healing phase, minimizing the risk of complications and optimizing the long-term results of the surgery. While the specific type and duration of orthosis may vary based on individual patient needs and surgical techniques, their overall benefits in terms of pain management, functional improvement, and spinal alignment cannot be overstated. As research and technology continue to advance, orthotic interventions are likely to evolve, further improving the postoperative experience for adult spine deformity patients.