1120 Socioeconomic Disparities in Post-Operative Complications Following Spinal Arthrodesis: A Retrospective Analysis of the All of Us Research Database

INTRODUCTION: Spinal arthrodesis, or spinal fusion, stabilizes the spine and alleviates pain from conditions like degenerative disc disease, scoliosis, and spinal stenosis. Despite advancements in surgical techniques, post-operative complications remain a significant concern. While socioeconomic disparities in healthcare access and outcomes are well-documented, their impact on post-operative complications following spinal arthrodesis is not well understood. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted using data from 1443 spinal arthrodesis patients. The incidence and severity of post-operative complications, such as surgical site infection and cardiopulmonary insufficiencies were compared across socioeconomic groups, controlling for relevant clinical and demographic factors. RESULTS: Significant socioeconomic disparities were observed in the incidence and severity of post-operative complications. Patients in the lowest median income bracket had a significantly higher proportion of post-operative complications compared to those in the highest income bracket (p < 0.05). Patients in the highest percentage of assisted income bracket experienced a substantially higher incidence of post-operative complications compared to those in the lowest assisted income bracket (p < 0.01). Patients without a high school education also experienced significantly higher post-operative complications (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights significant socioeconomic disparities in post-operative complications following spinal arthrodesis. These findings suggest that lower socioeconomic status may be associated with factors such as limited access to high-quality healthcare, lower health literacy, and less optimal perioperative care. Addressing these disparities requires multifaceted approaches, including improving access to high-quality care, enhancing patient education and engagement, and optimizing perioperative management for vulnerable populations. Future research should focus on identifying specific barriers faced by these groups and developing targeted interventions to improve surgical outcomes and reduce disparities in patients undergoing spinal arthrodesis.