Value analysis of minimally invasive spine surgery

The purpose of this article is to acquaint readers with the current methodology and evidence on outcome assessment and economic value for minimally invasive spinal surgical procedures. This article will review the standardized outcome measures, calculations of direct and indirect costs, quality-adjusted life years, and economic comparisons of spinal surgical procedures. The available literature suggests that minimally invasive spine surgery is cost effective; however, further research is needed to better assess the longer-term outcomes and cost–utility benefits of minimally invasive spinal interventions in comparison to open surgical approaches.