Postoperative Experience of Older Adult Patients Who Underwent Lumbar Spine Surgery: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Purpose: Older adult patients undergoing lumbar spine surgery often experience restricted daily activities due to sarcopenia and physical weakness, leading to a diminished quality of life. This study aimed to explore the postoperative experiences of older adult patients who underwent lumbar spine surgery. Methods: This qualitative content analysis study collected data through individual interviews with 10 participants aged 60 years or older who underwent spinal surgery between 2016 and 2022. Results: A total of 107 codes were identified and classified into 9 categories, 20 subcategories, and 4 main themes: “the boundary between acceptance and resistance,” “distrust of hospitals and uncertainty about life due to unmet needs,” “leading a different life compared to before surgery,” and “living an adapted lifestyle.” Conclusion: Older adult patients desire healthcare providers to recognize their unmet needs and deliver individualized postoperative care tailored to their unique conditions and experiences.