A survey of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) awareness among neurosurgeons in washington state

Abstract Objectives: Use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) by the U.S. population increased significantly in the past 2 decades. To maximize a patient's recovery from a neurosurgical procedure, it is critical that neurosurgeons be aware of the benefits and potential adverse complications of CAM therapies. The survey's purpose was to assess the current patterns of CAM utilization by neurosurgery patients and neurosurgeon knowledge of CAM therapies among Washington State Association of Neurological Surgeons (WSANS) members. Methods: Members of the WSANS were surveyed in 2005. The survey was sent via e-mail and the data were anonymously collected using an online survey tool, Catalyst WebQ. Results: The majority of responses (79%) stated that their neurosurgery practice was ≥75% adults. Acupuncture, herbs, massage therapy, prayer, and yoga were the most common CAM treatments patients used or discussed with their neurosurgeon. Fifty percent (50%) of neurosurgeons discussed the use of acupuncture ...