Black patients with idiopathic scoliosis more likely to miss pre-surgery appointments

FRIDAY, Oct. 27, 2023 (HealthDay News) — Black patients with idiopathic scoliosis who undergo surgery are more likely to miss preoperative appointments, according to a study published online in October. ) People with lower scores miss more post-op appointments..23 in Journal of Pediatric Orthopedics.

Patrick Thornley, MD, of Nemours Children’s Health Center in Wilmington, Del., and colleagues examined patients who underwent surgery at a high-volume pediatric spinal deformity institution between May 2015 and October 2021. A total of 421 patients diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis were reviewed to examine the impact of scoliosis. SES, race, and outcome insurance.

Overall, the majority of patients had private vs. public insurance (80% vs. 20%, respectively) and had higher SES. Researchers found that black patients were more likely to miss their preoperative appointments. People of lower socioeconomic status missed more post-operative appointments, and they received less support and second opinions. For those who are black and publicly insured, stents are prescribed less often and rates of getting a second opinion are lower.

“Our results show that these patient characteristics have a clear impact on preoperative and postoperative care and, most concerning, on postoperative outcomes,” said senior author Suken A. Shah, Nemours Children’s Health Center. said in a statement.

Abstract/Full text (subscription or payment may be required)