Main description:

This book is a comprehensive guide to the basic science of spinal diseases for trainees and clinicians. Divided into four sections, the authors begin with detailed discussion on the anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology of the intervertebral disc. The following sections examine the science of spinal instrumentation and spinal interventions.

Clinical chapters are structured in a uniform format, beginning with the presentation of a clinical case, followed by detailed discussion and supporting evidence. Each case ends with challenging questions to direct further investigation.

This book is a highly useful compilation of research work from recognised surgeons from the USA and The Netherlands, specialising in the fields of physiology, biology, biomechanics and mechanobiology.

Key points

Comprehensive guide to the basic science of spinal diseases
Based on research work of specialists in physiology, biology, biomechanics and mechanobiology
US and Dutch author and editor team
Includes nearly 240 full colour images and illustrations

Contents:

Section 1: Anatomy and Physiology of the Intervertebral Disc

Anatomy and Structure of the Intervertebral Disc
Biomechanics of Intervertebral Disc
Vascular Anatomy of the Endplates and Nutrient Supply of the Disc
Muscular Anatomy of the Spine
Imaging of the Intervertebral Disc
Animal Models for Disc Degeneration
Animal Models of Back Pain and Sciatica
Animal Models for Spinal Deformity and their Role in the Development of Surgical Nonfusion AIS Treatments

Section 2: Pathophysiology of the Intervertebral Disc

Pathophysiology of Disc Degeneration
Genetics of Disc Degeneration
The Role of Inflammation in Disc Degeneration
Understanding the Pathways of Pain
Treatment Strategies to Regenerate the IVD

Section 3: The Science of Spinal Instrumentation

Implant Properties of Spinal Instrumentation
Biomechanics of Spinal Instrumentation
Biomechanics of Cervical Spine Instrumentation
Biomechanics of Thoracolumbar Instrumentation
Biomechanics of Lumbar Interbody Fusion
Biomechanics of Motion-Preserving Implants
Biomechanics of Interspinous Process Devices
Biomechanics of Cement Augmentation
Implant Design and Testing
Navigating the Regulatory and Reimbursement Pathways
The Patent Process

Section 4: The Science of Spinal Interventions

Pharmaceutical Management of Spine Pain
Biochemistry of Epidural Steroid Injections
Basic Science of Discography and Provocative Testing
The Use of Stem Cells in Spine Surgery
Biology of Spinal Fusion
Bone Graft Extenders