Health Research Methodology in Spine Surgery

Abstract

Symptomatic spinal disorders affect a large proportion of the population and are associated with substantial morbidity, social burden, and economic impact. Spine surgery interventions can provide excellent results in carefully selected patients whose symptoms fail to improve with non-operative management, but an evidence-based approach is paramount to optimize outcomes and rigorous standards of health research methodology are critical to avoid misleading conclusions. This thesis aimed to investigate and apply modern innovations in health research methodology to the field of spine surgery. It consists of seven chapters divided between three sections: randomized controlled trials, observational studies, and systematic reviews and meta-analyses. By applying the findings of each chapter, clinicians, researchers, and other evidence users can advance the credibility of future research and enhance the care of patients with spinal disorders.