Predictive Score Card for Lumbar Disc Surgery

Does the patient have low back pain?

Has the patient previously undergone lumbar spine surgery?

Type of operation planned

Straight leg raising test findings

Is the low back and sciatic pain severe enough to be incapacitating?

Is the sciatica is more severe than the back pain?

Does the patient primarily have back pain only?

Is the patient grossly obese?

Does weight bearing (sitting or standing) aggravate the pain while bed rest eases the pain?

Does the neurological examination demonstrates a single root syndrome indicating a specific interspace?

Is the entire leg numb?

Is there simultaneous weakness in flexion and extension of the toes?

Does pain extend into areas not explainable by an organic lesion?

Is there a myelographic defect that matches the findings found on the neurologic examination?

Does the patient have a realistic self-appraisal of future life-style?

Does the patient have unrealistically high expectations from surgery?

Has the patient previously attempted suicide?

Has the patient had previous admissions for nonorganic symptoms?

Is the patient an alcoholic?

Is the patient unhappy with her or his job?

Are the physical demands of present occupation excessive?

Does the patient show hostility to environment, employer or spouse?

Has the patient had significant time off from work for medical reasons?

Was the back pain caused by a work-related or vehicular accident?

Is the patient involved in a medico-legal lawsuit related to the back pain?

Is the patient near retirement age and eligible for disability pension if symptoms persist?

Does the patient have a history of previous law suit for medico-legal problems?