Use of the subcutaneous lumbar spine (SLS) index as a predictor for surgical complications in lumbar spine surgery

摘要

BACKGROUND CONTEXT: Lumbar spine surgeries require adequate exposure to visualize key structures and limited exposure can make surgery more technically difficult, thus increasing the potential for complications. Body mass index and body mass distribution have been shown to be associated with worse surgical outcomes. PURPOSE: This study aims to further previous investigations in elucidating the predictive nature of body mass distribution with peri- and postoperative complications in lumbar surgery.