Correlation Between Personality Traits and Patient Outcomes Following Elective Spine Surgery: A Pre-Post Interventional Study

Author(s): Purushotham Sastry, Shivanandha Manohar, Adhavan Chidhambaram, Gurumurthy B, Prakash M, Punith N

Background: Patient outcomes following elective spine surgery can be influenced by a variety of factors, including the patient's psychological state and personality traits. Understanding the relationship between personality traits and surgical outcomes could improve patient care and enhance recovery.

Objectives: To assess the correlation between personality traits and patient outcomes following elective spine surgery, utilizing pre- and post-surgical evaluations.

Study Design: A pre-post interventional study design was used to evaluate the impact of personality traits on patient recovery after elective spine surgery.

Methods: A total of 40 patients undergoing elective spine surgery at the Department of Orthopaedics, JSS Hospital, Mysuru, were included in the study using purposive sampling. The Big Five Personality Traits (Neuroticism, Extraversion, Openness, Agreeableness, and Conscientiousness) were measured pre-operatively. Outcomes, including functional status, pain levels, and quality of life, were assessed post-operatively. Data were analyzed using SPSS software, and a p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results: The study identified significant correlations between specific personality traits and patient outcomes. High levels of conscientiousness were associated with better recovery and improved functional outcomes, while high neuroticism was correlated with delayed recovery and lower satisfaction levels post-surgery.

Conclusion: Personality traits can significantly influence patient outcomes following elective spine surgery. Incorporating psychological evaluations into pre-surgical planning may help improve recovery and patient satisfaction.