Knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors regarding the use of clinical practice guidelines among spine surgeons in Latin America

BACKGROUND: Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPGs) are invaluable tools to assure evidence-based spine surgery care. In this study, we aimed to identify perceptions, barriers, and potential determinants for the use of CPG among Latin American spine surgeons. METHODS: A 28-item questionnaire regarding the use of CPGs was sent to the members of AO Spine Latin America. The questionnaire was subdivided into three sections: (1) demographic data; (2) perceptions and awareness of CPGs; (3) and potential barriers to CPG use. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to assess potential associations with CPG use. RESULTS: A total of 304 spine surgeons answered the questionnaire. Most of the participants were male (91.8%) and orthopedic spine surgeons (52.3%) who averaged 45–65 years of age. Most respondents were aware of some CPGs for spine care (68.8%) and reported using them (70.4%); lack of awareness about CPGs was the most frequent barrier to their use (65.1%). CONCLUSION: Awareness of CPGs in spine surgery is of paramount importance for their use. Educational programs explaining the importance and benefits of spine care CPG surgical and clinical practice would increase the adherence of physicians to the guidelines.