Updated edition of bestseller from master spine surgeons uncovers tricks of the trade Thieme congratulates Todd Albert on being chosen by New York magazine for its prestigious 'Best Doctors 2017' list. Written by world-renowned masters in spine surgery, this expanded third edition details all the major procedures and newest technical innovations in the field. Experts share clinical pearls gleaned from years of surgical experience and ongoing refinement of techniques. Throughout 21 well organized sections, the essential elements of a full spectrum of cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and sacroiliac joint procedures are distilled into 112 concise, easy to understand chapters. From deformities to spinal tumors, the text facilitates a greater understanding of surgical nuances and potential complications encountered in standard to complex cases. The authors share insights for improving patient safety and outcome such as reducing radiation exposure during fluoroscopy, minimizing intraoperative blood loss, and utilization of the surgical microscope. Updated pain management content encompasses varied strategies including injections, steroids, and nerve blocks. Special Features: More than 400 stunning full color illustrations, diagrams, and photographs replace black and white images from the previous edition Online access to 40 videos in which surgeon-authors share personal tips and demonstrate how to deftly navigate challenging, real life cases. Highlights include up close and personal footage shot in the OR and cadaver simulations Greatly expanded section on minimally invasive technologies covers AxiaLIF, Presacral Interbody Fusion, SI Joint Fusion, and the use of both Robotics and Endoscopy Up to date and comprehensive, this book is an outstanding resource for orthopedic and neurosurgical fellows and residents, as well as clinicians specializing in spine surgery.

Thieme congratulates Todd Albert on being chosen by New York magazine for its prestigious 'Best Doctors 2017' list. Master spine surgeons Todd Albert and Alexander Vaccaro update essential spine textbook with expanded sections and full-color illustrations Written by world-renowned spine surgery experts, this definitive text elucidates the importance of obtaining a thorough medical history and performing a physical exam for a full spectrum of spine conditions. There have been significant advancements in minimally invasive spinal surgery techniques since publication of the last edition. However, spine evaluations will always be imperative to clinical practice. These exams reveal a myriad of clues that help spine specialists make a differential diagnosis for a wide array of pathologies. This book is a clear, concise "how to" guide on conducting physical examinations of the spine. The text begins with a methodical review of fundamentals including basic anatomy and neurology; sensation, muscle, and reflex tests; and classification systems. Subsequent chapters succinctly delineate why the spinal exam is an integral component of neurosurgical, neurological, orthopaedic, and chiropractic exams. Key Highlights: The updated edition features a wealth of beautiful, full-color line drawings A systematic, step-by-step guide on spine examination techniques organized by anatomy - from the cervical spine to the lumbar spine Thorough discussion of motor, sensory, reflex techniques, and special tests provides a greater understanding of how to examine the spine Expanded sections on thoracic spine pathologies and deformities Up-to-date and comprehensive, this book is essential reading for trainee and practicing orthopaedic surgeons and neurosurgeons who perform spine tests in daily practice. It is also a terrific resource for neurologists, physical therapists, and allied health professionals who frequently treat patients for back and neck pain.