The NOTICE Study: Neurosurgery and OrThopedIcs Communication Evaluation Study Following Lumbar Fusions

Launched by DUKE UNIVERSITY · Oct 24, 2019

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The NOTICE Study is looking at how effective different ways of sharing information are for patients who have recently had lumbar spine surgery, which helps with conditions like spine degeneration or instability. The study compares "informative text messages" sent to patients after their surgery with traditional handouts that provide the same information. This research aims to see which method helps patients understand their care better and recover more effectively.

To participate in this study, you must be at least 18 years old and have had a primary lumbar fusion surgery involving 1 to 4 levels of your spine. You also need to be familiar with texting and use it regularly. It’s important to note that the study is not for individuals who have had previous spine surgeries or have certain health issues, like tumors or uncontrolled diabetes. If you choose to join, you can expect to receive regular text messages or handouts with information about your recovery after surgery, helping you stay informed and engaged in your healing process.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Primary lumbar fusion 1-4 levels
• • 2. 18 years or older
• • 3. Degenerative spine diagnosis
• 4. Answers YES to all the following screening questions:
• • Do you own a mobile phone that is capable of sending and receiving text messages?
• • Do you know how to text and feel comfortable texting?
• • Are you a regular (at least once a day) text-message user?
• • Are you agreeable to regular contact?
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Prior lumbar fusions
• • 2. Tumors/infection/trauma
• • 3. Prisoners or institutionalized patients
• • 4. Non-English speaking patients
• • 5. Patients who smokes or with uncontrolled diabetes
• • 6. Participants will be removed from study if discharged to a rehabilitation center or discharged beyond 7 days post-operatively (we are expecting \~15% of patients to be discharged to a rehabilitation center or discharged beyond 7 days post-operatively)