DOI: 278-286

Pages: 248-253

Background: Postoperative lumbar intervertebral discitis (PLID) is a rare but serious complication of spinal surgery, often resulting in significant pain, functional impairment, and prolonged recovery. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical and laboratory outcomes of surgical intervention in managing PLID and to identify factors influencing recovery. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted over one year at multiple hospitals. Data from patients who underwent surgical intervention for PLID were analyzed. Clinical outcomes, including Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores, and laboratory parameters such as C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and white blood cell count, were compared preoperatively and postoperatively. Subgroup and logistic regression analyses were performed to identify predictors of delayed recovery. Results: A total of 50 patients were included in the study. Significant improvements were observed in postoperative VAS (8.2 ± 1.1 vs. 3.1 ± 0.8, p < 0.001) and ODI scores (65.4 ± 8.9% vs. 24.3 ± 6.5%, p < 0.001). Laboratory markers, including CRP (112.4 ± 35.7 mg/L vs. 8.2 ± 3.1 mg/L, p < 0.001) and ESR (68.5 ± 21.4 mm/h vs. 14.2 ± 4.7 mm/h, p < 0.001), also showed significant reductions postoperatively. Subgroup analysis revealed that diabetes mellitus and prolonged preoperative symptom duration were associated with delayed recovery. Logistic regression identified elevated preoperative CRP levels and symptom duration as independent predictors of prolonged recovery. Conclusion: Surgical intervention is highly effective in improving pain, functional outcomes, and inflammatory marker resolution in patients with PLID. Early diagnosis and timely surgical management are crucial to optimizing recovery, especially in patients with comorbid conditions.