Activity and sports resumption after long segment fusions to the pelvis for adult spinal deformity: survey results of AO Spine members

Abstract

Purpose To assess recommendations for when adult spinal deformity (ASD) patients may return to athletic activities after surgery. Methods A web-based survey was administered to members of AO Spine. The survey consisted of surgeon demographic information and questions asking when a patient undergoing a long thoracolumbar fusion (> 5 levels) with pelvic fixation for ASD would be allowed to resume unrestricted range of motion (ROM), non-contact sports, and contact sports postoperatively. Ordinal logistic regression was used to determine predictors for time to resume each activity. Results One hundred twenty four members’ responses were included for analysis. The majority of respondents would allow unrestricted ROM within 3 months postop (< 3 months: 81% vs > 3 months: 19%]. For when to return to non-contact sports, the most common responses were “2–3 months” (26.6%), “3–4 months” (26.6%), and “6–12 months” (18.5%). For when to return to contact sports, the majority advised > 4 months postop [> 4 months: “4–6 months” (19.2%), “6–12 months” (28.0%), “ > 12 months” (28.8%) versus < 4 months: “1–2 months” (4.0%), “2–3 months” (1.6%), “3–4 months” (8.8%)]. 8.8% responded they would “never” allow resumption of contact sports. Conclusion There was significant variation between surgeons’ recommendations for resumption of unrestricted range of motion and sports following long fusion with pelvic fixation for ASD. An evidence-based approach to activity recommendations will require information on outcomes and complications.