Evaluation of the Tokuhashi prognosis score and its modifications in 217 patients with vertebral metastases

Aim: The Tokuhashi prognosis score consists of six parameters. The sum of points rated for each parameter can be correlated with the prognosis. This study evaluates the score variations that have been done by different authors and Tokuhashi et al. themselves. Methods: Two hundred and seventeen consecutive patients, surgically treated for vertebral metastases, were studied retrospectively. We calculated the original and modified score of Tokuhashi and evaluated the predictive value for the individual life expectancy. Results: The original and modified Tokuhashi score assured a significant predictive value. Modified criteria by the authors showed the highest reliability between the predicted and real survival, and the patients could be allocated correctly to the desirable instrumentation. Conclusion: The original and modified Tokuhashi score showed a significant predictive value. The modified criteria by the authors showed the highest reliability between predicted and real survival. 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.