Support or constraint? A comprehensive analysis of postoperative cervical bracing practices: insights from the Italian society of neurosurgery (SINch) survey and a systematic review of the literature.

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to capture current bracing practices for cervical spine surgery among members of the Spine Section of the Italian Society of Neurosurgery (SINch). It explores the rationale behind these practices and compares them with available evidence in the literature. A systematic review was conducted to evaluate whether patients undergoing single- or double-level anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) without plating experience better clinical or radiological outcomes with or without postoperative cervical bracing.

Methods: An anonymous 45-item survey was distributed to SINch Spine Section Members to collect data on bracing protocols following various cervical spine procedures, including degenerative and traumatic conditions, and fusion and non-fusion procedures. Additionally, a systematic review adhering to PICO standards and PRISMA guidelines, was performed to evaluate the evidence on bracing after ACDF without plating. Eligible studies included prospective data on the Neck Disability Index (NDI) and fusion rates following single- or multiple-level ACDF without plating for cervical spondylosis. Methodological quality was evaluated using the Jadad Scale for randomized controlled trials and the GRADE framework for overall evidence assessment.

Results: The survey (61 respondents, 15% response rate) revealed that 85.2% of surgeons prescribed cervical collars for 2-level ACDF without plating. The main reasons cited were pain reduction and early mobilization, often based on personal experience and colleague recommendations, rather than literature evidence (14%). The systematic review identified two prospective studies, both showing no statistically significant impact of bracing on fusion rates. One study reported minor short-term improvements in neck pain (p0.05) with bracing, but no long-term differences in NDI were found.

Conclusions: Cervical bracing following single- or double-level ACDF without plating remains controversial, with no significant difference in fusion rates, kyphosis progression, or cage migration between braced and non-braced patients. The routine use of postoperative bracing appears driven by tradition rather than strong evidence, suggesting that a more selective and evidence-based approach is warranted. Further high-quality research is needed to establish standardized guidelines.