Instrumented Fusion Of The Degenerative Lumbar Spine: State Of The Art, Questions And Controversies (Hardcover)

This volume describes the variety of techniques and instrumentation devices that have been developed for lumbar spinal fusion and critically assesses the use of these devices for treatment of degenerative lumbar disorders. Leading international experts present views of the major controversies surrounding surgical management of degenerative low back pain - whether and when fusion is indicated, which techniques and devices to use, and how to evaluate results. The opening secetion of the book discusses the biomechanics of spinal implants, the radiologic assessment of fusion, the outcome measures used by surgeons, and the causes of surgical failure. A major portion of the book examines the indications, techniques and results of specific spinal fusion methods in degenerative lumbar disorders - pedicle screws, laminar hooks, rods, plates, interbody fixation devices, and combined systems. The final section details the pros and cons of fusion for degenerative lumbar disorders and discusses the interpretation of clinical trials.