Risk Factors for Poor Wound Healing Following Posterior Lumbar Spine Surgery in Patients with Lumbar Degenerative Diseases: A Retrospective Case-Control Study ShortTitle: Risk Factors for Poor Wound Healing

Purpose This study aimed to identify the risk factors associated with poor wound healing (PWH) following posterior lumbar spine surgery in patients with lumbar degenerative diseases (LDD). Methods From January 2019 to January 2023, consecutive patients who underwent lumbar spine surgery at our hospital were retrospectively studied. Data on patients' baseline characteristics, clinical information, and imaging findings were collected, and multiple logistic regression analysis was employed to assess the risk factors for PWH. Results A total of 1050 patients were included in the final analysis, of whom 79 exhibited post-operative PWH complications, while 971 demonstrated normal healing. The results of the multiple regression analysis indicated that male sex (OR=2.188, 95% CI=1.304-2.670, p<0.05)and high body mass index (BMI) (OR=1.882, 95% CI 1.147-3.089, p<0.05) were independent risk factors for PWH. Conclusions Male patients and those with a high BMI are at increased risk of experiencing PWH following lumbar spine surgery. These findings underscore the importance of closely monitoring these high-risk patient groups in clinical practice and implementing appropriate preventive measures to enhance postoperative outcomes.