Guidelines for the performance of fusion procedures for degenerative disease of the lumbar spine. Part 3: assessment of economic outcome

Standards. There is insufficient evidence to recommend a standard for assessment of economic outcome following lumbar fusion for degenerative disease. Guidelines. There is insufficient evidence to recommend a guideline for assessment of economic outcome following lumbar fusion for degenerative disease. Options. It is recommended that valid and responsive economic outcome measures be included in the assessment of outcomes following lumbar fusion surgery for degenerative disease. Return-to-work rates and termination of disability compensation are two such measures. It is recommended that cost analyses related to lumbar spinal fusion include perioperative expenses as well as expenses associated with long-term care, including those incurred in both the operative and nonoperative settings.