Wound Drain After Lumbar Fusion Surgery

Postoperative Outcomes Following Primary Lumbar Fusion in Patients With and Without a Drain: A Prospective Randomized Control Trial

Postoperative drain placement is often used following spine surgery. These drains are placed with the intention to decrease the incidence of postoperative hematoma and its associated complications including wound complications, infections and neurologic compression.

The use of drains, however, are not without its disadvantages including the risk of retrograde infection, increased postoperative blood loss, increased length of stay and increased hospital costs. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the postoperative outcomes and complications in patients undergoing primary lumbar fusion with and without a postoperative drain

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age > 18
• Undergoing primary lumbar fusion or decompression and fusion for 1-2 levels
• Surgery indicated for lumbar degenerative disease

Exclusion Criteria:

• Undergoing revision surgery
• Surgery indicated for infection
• Intraoperative dural tear
• Surgery requiring intraoperative transfusion