Exploring Spine Surgeons' Perspectives on Salah (Islamic Prayer) Performance Postsurgery. A Time for Consensus?

BACKGROUND

Postsurgical recovery following spine surgeries poses challenges for Muslim patients wishing to resume Salah (Islamic prayer), which involves physical movements like kneeling and prostration. This study aims to examine spine surgeons' perspectives on the appropriate timing and conditions for resuming Salah after spine surgery without restrictions.

METHODS

This cross-sectional survey study included surgeons in Saudi Arabia who perform spine surgeries. We collected data on surgeons' demographics, experience, and specific recommendations regarding Salah post different spinal surgeries including lumbar discectomy with fusion, lumbar discectomy without fusion, scoliosis surgery, anterior cervical decompression with fusion, and posterior cervical decompression with or without fusion. χ2 test was used for statistical analyses.

RESULTS

From around 200 spine surgeons, 90 responded (45% response rate). After lumbar discectomy with fusion, 91% of surgeons recommended resuming Salah without restrictions after 4 weeks, with significant differences based on specialty and educational level (P < 0.05). For lumbar discectomy without fusion, recommendations varied, with 43% advising 4-6 weeks, influenced by the surgeons' experience in performing spine surgeries (P < 0.05). For scoliosis surgery, 76% recommended at least 6 weeks before lifting restrictions. For anterior cervical discectomy and fusion, 39% recommended 4-6 weeks, while for posterior cervical decompression with or without fusion, 43% advised 4-6 weeks.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgeons' recommendations for resuming Salah vary significantly, influenced by specialty, experience, and educational level. Standardized guidelines could improve consistency in postoperative care for Muslim patients.