Background The process of clinical decision-making and the patient-physician relationship continue to evolve. Increasing patient involvement in clinical decision-making is embodied in the concept of ''shared decision-making'' (SDM), in which the patient and physician share responsibility in the clinical decision-making process. Various patients' decision aid tools have been developed to enhance this process. Questions/purposes We therefore (1) describe decisionmaking models; (2) discuss the different types of patients' decision aids available to practice SDM; and (3) describe the practice and early impact of SDM on clinical orthopaedic surgery. Methods We performed a search of the literature using PubMed/MEDLINE and Cochrane Library. We identified studies related to shared decision-making and the use of patients' decision aids in orthopaedics. The search resulted in 113 titles, of which 21 were included with seven studies on patients' decision aid use specifically in orthopaedics.Results Although limited studies suggest the use of patients' decision aids may enhance decision-making, conclusions about the use of these aids in orthopaedic clinical practice cannot be made and further research examining the best type, timing, and content of patients' decision aids that will lead to maximum patient involvement and knowledge gains with minimal clinical workflow interruption are needed. Conclusion In clinical practice today, patients are increasingly involved in clinical decision-making. Further research on SDM in orthopaedic surgery examining the feasibility and impact on practice, on patients' willingness and ability to actively participate in shared decision-making, and the timing and type of patients' decision aids appropriate for use is still needed.
Purpose of Review Lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) is a relatively new, minimally invasive technique for interbody fusion. The goal of this review is to provide a general overview of LLIF with a special focus on outcomes and complications. Recent Findings Since the first description of the technique in 2006, the indications for LLIF have expanded and the rate of LLIF procedures performed in the USA has increased. LLIF has several theoretical advantages compared to other approaches including the preservation of the anterior and posterior annular/ligamentous structures, insertion of wide cages resting on the dense apophyseal ring bilaterally, and augmentation of disc height with indirect decompression of neural elements. Favorable long-term outcomes and a reduced risk of visceral/vascular injuries, incidental dural tears, and perioperative infections have been reported. However, approach-related complications such as motor and sensory deficits remain a concern. Summary In well-indicated patients, LLIF can be a safe procedure used for a variety of indications.
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