Management of complex spine surgery.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The main objective of this article is to present the updated data regarding the perioperative management of patients undergoing major spine surgery in an era where the surgical techniques are changing and there is a high demand for these surgeries in older and high-risk patients.

RECENT FINDINGS: Preoperative assessment and stabilization is now more structured protocol and it is based on a multidisciplinary approach to the patient. The Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) programs and the Perioperative Surgical Home on major spine surgery are not yet fully evidence based but it seems that the use of a perioperative optimization of patients and use of a drugs' bundle is more effective than using single drugs or interventions on the postoperative pain reduction and faster recovery from surgery. Fluid and pain-control protocols combined with an accurate blood management represent the key to success.

SUMMARY: A tailored approach to patients undergoing major spine surgeries seems to be effective improving the outcome and quality of life of patients. Future studies should aim to understand which elements of the ERAS can be improved to allow the patient to have a long-term good outcome. VIDEO ABSTRACT.