Changes in Spinal Injection Utilization in Korea: A Nationwide Comparative Study of Two Observation Periods (2008–2012 and 2018–2022)

Objective

This study aimed to examine changes in spinal injection utilization in Korea between two observation periods, 2008-2012 and 2018-2022. Methods:We analyzed records from the Korean National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) database, using procedure-specific treatment codes to identify spinal injections and classify them as cervicothoracic or lumbar.We assessed patient and procedure counts, along with patient demographic characteristics.Annual medical costs were calculated based on standardized NHIS fees, adjusted using sampling weights, and converted to U.S. dollars (USD).