Value-Based Approaches to Spine Care

Beginning with a review of current trends in health care delivery leading to more value-based platforms, this unique and up-to-date book then focuses on how modern spine care is being shaped by the aging population, scientific and technological advancements, and the economic impact of various treatment modalities, providing insight into the seminal efforts surrounding sustainable spine care guideline development. The over-utilization of spine fusion surgery and adult spinal deformity are presented as examples that have led to a decline in the value of care delivered, as well as how a multidisciplinary evaluation by the range of clinicians involved in spine surgery can revise recommendations for management. The benefits and risks of LEAN methodology for streamlining and standardizing spine care approaches are discussed, and the specific approach of the Seattle Spine Team is presented as an example of successful system-wide improvement. Similar changes to outcome measurement, specifically for adult spinal deformity, are described. Last, the future of technology in spine care is presented, including robotics, nanotechnology, 3D printing, and the use of biologics and biomaterials.
Given the broad scope of topics covered in this book, the intended audience includes not only orthopedic and spinal surgeons, neurosurgeons, physiatrists, and medical students, residents and fellows, but also hospital CEOs, CMOs, administrators, health services researchers, and health care policymakers, consultants and strategists.