Drainage versus Nondrainage for Thoracolumbar Spine Surgery: An Evidence Synthesis

The utilization of drainage tubes in posterior thoracolumbar spine surgery does not show significant associations with SSI, reoperation rates, length of hospital stay, or clinical effectiveness. However, their use is associated with an increased frequency of postoperative blood transfusions. In single-segment operations, drainage tube placement demonstrates correlations with a lower occurrence of PEH, reduced probability of postoperative fever, and fewer dressing changes.