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Page 240 Giakas et al. Art Int Surg 2024;4:233-46 https://dx.doi.org/10.20517/ais.2024.24

(4) Laminectomy or laminotomy: These procedures involve removing part of the lamina (a bony arch in the
spine) to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. While this can increase space for nerve structures, it
might have a slight impact on stability and range of motion.
(5) Fusion procedures: If fusion is performed in conjunction with decompression, it might lead to a
reduction in the range of motion at the fused segment.
It is important to note that your surgeon will strive to achieve a balance between decompression and
preserving spinal stability and function. They will discuss the potential impact on your range of motion
during the preoperative consultation, taking into consideration your specific condition, treatment goals, and
lifestyle.

Attending 1 Score: 4
Attending 2 Score: 2

Analysis: Attendings disagreed on the adequacy of ChatGPT’s response to this question. A lower score from
one attending was given because ChatGPT’s claim regarding the superiority of MISS in preserving range of
motion is not conclusively supported by current spine surgery literature . It was also felt that the mention
[32]
of fusion could confuse patients considering PLD, which is typically handled without a concomitant fusion
procedure. It was concluded that the response provided a satisfactory but uncomprehensive outline of
motion preservation for different techniques and indications for PLD.

7. Will lumbar decompression surgery help my back pain?
Lumbar decompression surgery is primarily aimed at relieving symptoms caused by nerve compression,
such as leg pain, weakness, numbness, and other neurological symptoms. While it can lead to a significant
reduction or elimination of leg-related symptoms, its impact on back pain itself can vary. Here are some key
points to consider:

(1) Secondary improvement: Lumbar decompression surgery is primarily designed to alleviate symptoms
related to nerve compression. If your back pain is directly related to nerve compression or irritation, surgery
might lead to a reduction in back pain as well.
(2) Mixed results: The impact of lumbar decompression surgery on isolated back pain (pain that is not
primarily due to nerve compression) can be less predictable. Some patients experience relief, while others
might have varying degrees of improvement.
(3) Degenerative disc disease: If your back pain is due to degenerative disc disease and is not primarily
nerve-related, lumbar decompression surgery might not target the underlying cause of your pain. Other
surgical options, like spinal fusion, might be considered in such cases.
(4) Patient expectations: It is important to have realistic expectations about the outcomes of surgery.
Discuss your goals and expectations with your surgeon during your consultations.

Attending 1 Score: 4
Attending 2 Score: 2

Analysis: The reviewers generally agreed regarding the accuracy of the content provided in this response.
While the response was seen as useful for patients considering PLD, it was noted that it also could be
perplexing for patients without a medical background who might have numerous follow-up questions
regarding the difference between “back pain” vs. “nerve pain”. While many medical professionals can
identify the difference between such etiologies, some patients may not be able to differentiate between these
sources of pain. Therefore, patients could be confused as to how PLD might address their specific