Neurosurgery compared to orthopedic spine consultation: A single level I trauma center experience

Both Orthopedic Surgery (OS) and Neurosurgery (NS) perform spine surgery in the setting of trauma. However, it is unknown whether outcomes differ between these specialties. This study compares management and outcomes for vertebral fractures between NS and OS, hypothesizing similar operation rate, length of stay (LOS), and readmission. Do outcomes differ between NS and OS in the management of vertebral fractures following trauma? A retrospective single-center study was conducted on adult patients with cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and sacral fractures treated at a single trauma center, where no standardized pathway exists across NS and OS. Patients were compared for injury profile, diagnostic imaging, and operative techniques as well as LOS, mortality, and complications. A total of 630 vertebral fracture patients (OS:350 (55.6%); NS:280 (44.4%)) were included. NS utilized magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) more commonly (36.4% vs. 22.6%, p 0.05). Post-operative complications, LOS, and readmission rates were similar between cohorts (p > 0.05). Despite similar injury profiles, NS had higher rates of MRI usage and operative interventions in the context of traumatic spine fractures. Despite differences in management, major clinical outcomes were similar between NS and OS. However, we do call for further standardization of evaluation and treatment of patients based on established algorithms from such as the AOSpine Thoracolumbar Spine Injury Classification System (ATLICS). •There were similar outcomes in this cohort for vertebral fractures managed by neurosurgery and orthopedics.•Neurosurgery more frequently used MRI and chose operative intervention as compared to orthopedics.•Future research is needed to further standardize spine fracture management.