The second edition of this popular text presents the current diagnostic and therapeutic surgical treatments for low back pain as well as the anatomic and physiologic rationale for their application. Leading experts in the field of spine surgery, neurosurgery, and orthopedics provide evidence-based discussions of the indications, various techniques, and anticipated results of surgical intervention for pain of the lumbar spine. The book presents key clinical information on pathophysiology, imaging modalities, patient selection, biomechanics, minimally invasive approaches, and complication management. Features of this edition: * New sections on the evidence-based assessment of emerging biological strategies for the treatment of degenerative disk disease, fusion techniques, and disk arthroplasty * Coverage of controversial topics such as intradiscal electrothermal therapy and radiofrequency nuclear decompression nucleoplasty This book provides clinicians with a solid foundation in the range of surgical approaches for the effective treatment of low back pain. Comprehensive and up-to-date, it will enhance the clinical armamentarium of spine surgeons, neurosurgeons, orthopedists, and fellows and residents in these specialties. (A co-publication of Thieme and the American Association of Neurological Surgeons)