Bracing and Activity Restriction After Lumbar Discectomy Surgery: An International Survey of AO Spine Members

Objective: Bracing after lumbar discectomy surgery (LDS) is a controversial topic with paucity of related scientific literature. Previous surveys on spine surgeons’ preferences were limited both in geographical coverage and number of respondents. The aim of this study is to fill this gap in the literature. Methods: An international online survey among AO Spine members regarding the postoperative recommendations for bracing (PoBr), activity restriction (AR), and associated factors, was performed. Results: A total of 703 spine surgeons participated in the survey of which 34% recommended PoBr, with half of them reported usage for 4 weeks. Main influencing variables were being from Europe/South Africa region, greater extent of bony decompression, and larger amount of excised disc material. Seventy-nine percent of the respondents recommended postoperative AR. Prolonged standing, prolonged sitting, and driving were usually restricted for 2 weeks. Bending, twisting, lifting, and low-intensity physical activities for 3 months, while high-intensity physical activities and direct contact sports for 6 months were restricted. Conclusion: Despite recent literature insights showing limited evidence of efficacy, 34% and 80% of a large cohort of international surgeons practice bracing and recommend AR after LDS for variable durations. Extensive bony decompression and radical discectomy significantly influenced the decision to brace, similarly endoscopic approaches and radical discectomy influenced the decision to restrict activity. These findings emphasize the persistent evidence-practice gap and the wide variability on the global level. More randomized controlled trials are warranted on this topic to reach an evidence-based recommendation.