The Global Spine Care Initiative: classification system for spine-related concerns.
PURPOSE: The purpose of this report is to describe the development of a classification system that would apply to anyone with a spine-related concern and that can be used in an evidence-based spine care pathway. METHODS: Existing classification systems for spinal disorders were assembled. A seed document was developed through round-table discussions followed by a modified Delphi process. International and interprofessional clinicians and scientists with expertise in spine-related conditions were invited to participate. RESULTS: Thirty-six experts from 15 countries participated. After the second round, there was 95% agreement of the proposed classification system. The six major classifications included: no or minimal symptoms (class 0); mild symptoms (i.e., neck or back pain) but no interference with activities (class I); moderate or severe symptoms with interference of activities (class II); spine-related neurological signs or symptoms (class III); severe bony spine deformity, trauma or pathology (class IV); and spine-related symptoms or destructive lesions associated with systemic pathology (class V). Subclasses for each major class included chronicity and severity when different interventions were anticipated or recommended. CONCLUSIONS: An international and interprofessional group developed a comprehensive classification system for all potential presentations of people who may seek care or advice at a spine care program. This classification can be used in the development of a spine care pathway, in clinical practice, and for research purposes. This classification needs to be tested for validity, reliability, and consistency among clinicians from different specialties and in different communities and cultures. These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material.
Duke Scholars
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Related Subject Headings
- Spinal Diseases
- Orthopedics
- Humans
- Disability Evaluation
- Delphi Technique
- 4201 Allied health and rehabilitation science
- 3202 Clinical sciences
- 1103 Clinical Sciences
- 0903 Biomedical Engineering
Citation
Published In
DOI
EISSN
Publication Date
Volume
Issue
Start / End Page
Location
Related Subject Headings
- Spinal Diseases
- Orthopedics
- Humans
- Disability Evaluation
- Delphi Technique
- 4201 Allied health and rehabilitation science
- 3202 Clinical sciences
- 1103 Clinical Sciences
- 0903 Biomedical Engineering