This study, called The NOTICE Study, is looking at whether sending automated text messages to patients after lumbar fusion surgery can help reduce how often they need to be readmitted to the hospital. You might be able to join if you are 18 or older, having a primary lumbar fusion surgery for a degenerative spine condition, and regularly use a mobile phone for texting. Half of the participants will receive standard information handouts after surgery, and the other half will receive daily text messages for the first week and every other day for the second week. These text messages will include links to videos with instructions for care at home. The main goal is to see if the text messages lead to fewer hospital readmissions within 30 days after surgery. The study is currently unclear on its recruitment status and plans to enroll 224 participants.

Study design

This is a single-blind, randomized study, meaning you wouldn't know if you're getting text messages or handouts, but the researchers would. About 224 adults will be randomly assigned to one of two groups.

What's involved

You would complete questionnaires before surgery. If in the text message group, you would receive text messages for two weeks after surgery. All participants will have a phone interview about 30 days after discharge.

Compensation

Not stated in the trial record.

Follow-up

You will be followed for 30 days (up to 37 days) after discharge from the hospital.

AI-generated from the public study record. Only the study team can confirm whether you're eligible — confirm details with them before making decisions.