Low back pain is a very common problem that is increasingly being treated surgically. This book aims to evaluate carefully the possible surgical approaches to low back pain, with detailed appraisal of the factors leading to their success or failure. It begins by explaining the scientific basis for surgery and considering the different diagnostic techniques that may be employed, thereby elucidating the surgical rationale, indications, and contraindications. The value of conservative options is also assessed to help the reader weigh the need for surgery. The various surgical modalities, including the most recent, are then fully described and evaluated with the aid of numerous illustrations. The book concludes with a chapter devoted to evidence-based analysis of the outcome of surgery in patients with low back pain. This book will be invaluable to orthopaedic and neurosurgeons, rheumatologists, neurologists, and all who are concerned with the effective treatment of this often debilitating condition.
Low back pain is a very common problem. Various treatments are available, but surgery has acquired increasing importance. In the United States, low back pain is now the principal reason for spinal surgery, and the number of procedures performed for this reason is similar to the number of total hip replacements. Consequently there is a need for careful evaluation of the possible surgical approaches to low back pain, with detailed appraisal of the factors leading to their success or failure. This book aims to meet such a need. It explains the scientific basis for surgery and considers the different diagnostic techniques that may be employed, thereby providing a better understanding of the surgical rationale, indications, and contraindications. The value of conservative options is also assessed to help the reader weigh the need for surgery. The various surgical modalities, including the most recent, are then fully described and evaluated with the aid of numerous illustrations. The book concludes with a chapter devoted to evidence-based analysis of the outcome of surgery in patients with low back pain. This book will be invaluable to orthopaedic and neurosurgeons, rheumatologists, neurologists, and all who are concerned with the effective treatment of this often debilitating condition.
From the reviews:
"This book is an interdisciplinary multi-author approach to the low back pain problem ? . this book is a valuable contribution about lumbar spine problems, including basics, critical evaluation of different treatment options with EBM references, with brief ethical and socio-economic discussions." (Denis L. Kaech, ArgoSpine News & Journal, Vol. 24 (1-2), June, 2012)
"This book evaluates the various surgical approaches to treating low back pain, with appraisal of the factors leading to their success or failure. It also discusses applicable treatment regimens other than surgery. ? The authors intend the book for orthopedic surgeons, neurosurgeons, rheumatologists, neurologists, physiatrists, physical therapists, psychologists, and social security/insurance specialists. However, it is best suited for neurosurgeons and orthopedic surgeons. ? This is a well-written and useful book. ? It deals specifically ? relevant to its subject, no more and no less." (Samuel J. Chmell, Doody's Book Reviews, July, 2010)
