Article

PURPOSE: To describe within the context of the International Classification of
Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF), patient's experiences post-lumber
fusion regarding back problems, recovery and expectations of rehabilitation and
to contrast with the content of outcome measures and the ICF low back pain (LBP)
core sets. METHODS: The study has a cross-sectional and retrospective design and
involves 20 lumbar fusion patients. Using the ICF, qualitative content analysis
of semi-structured interviews 3-6 months post-surgery was performed. This was
compared with the ICF related content of the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI),
Medical Outcome Study Short Form 36 (SF-36), European Quality of Life
Questionnaire (EQ5D) and the ICF LBP core sets. RESULTS: Patient's experiences
were most frequently linked to psychological, sensory, neuromusculoskeletal and
movement related body function chapters of the ICF. The most frequently linked
categories of activity and participation were mobility, domestic activities,
family relationships, work, recreation and leisure. Environmental factors
frequently linked were the use of analgesics, walking aids, family support,
social security systems, health care systems and labour market employment
services. CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights important ICF related aspects of
patient's experiences post-lumber fusion. The use of the comprehensive ICF core
sets is recommended in conjunction with ODI, SF-36 and the EQ5D for a broader
analysis of patient outcomes post-lumbar fusion.

Langue : ANGLAIS