In this study, investigators from the University of Utah evaluated the impact of a preoperative mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) course on patient-related outcomes among individuals undergoing lumbar spine surgery for degenerative disease. Intervention subjects were enrolled in a preoperative online MBSR course and were compared with a matched control group who received usual care before surgery. Twenty-four participants were included in each group. After 12 months, mean physical interference scores were significantly lower and change in mean physical interference scores from baseline was significantly greater in the intervention than the control group. No adverse events were reported. The authors concluded that preoperative MBSR may have pain control benefits in lumbar spine surgery.
Chavez JL, et al. World Neurosurgery 139:e230-e236, 2020 07.
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