Summary of Key Points • Anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) provides a biomechanically sound structural intervertebral arthrodesis with a large fusion surface area. • ALIF may indirectly decompress the exiting…

Summary of Key Points • Successful discectomy can be performed from an anterior or posterior approach. • Each approach has specific risks and benefits. • Central herniations typically require an…

Summary of Key Points • Posterolateral fusion techniques are increasingly used in the treatment of degenerative thoracolumbar disease. • Successful fusion is incumbent on the basic physiology of bone healing…

Summary of Key Points • Patient selection is paramount when choosing a lateral approach for a thoracic or lumbar decompression. • Fluoroscopy or stereotactic navigation is critical to define the…

Summary of Key Points • Commonly accepted indications for surgery differ, depending on whether a pure soft disc herniation causes radiculopathy without deficit or whether there are neurologic deficits due…

Summary of Key Points • The upper cervical spine presents many unique challenges to successful stabilization, including complex anatomy and limited access corridors. • Because of the high degree of…

Summary of Key Points • The craniocervical junction (CCJ) is the most mobile portion of the spine. • Most pathologic events affecting the CCJ are traumatic and degenerative in origin,…

Summary of Key Points • A diverse set of pathologies affects the craniocervical junction, including traumatic, congenital, degenerative, vascular, and neoplastic pathologies. • Traditionally, the craniocervical junction has been treated…

Summary of Key Points • Subsidence is inevitable. It is often accelerated by prior surgery. • Bone models and remodels, as do bone grafts. This process, to some degree, is…

Summary of Key Points • A solid understanding of anatomy is the foundation for any surgical procedure. • This chapter provides an overview of the lumbar and sacral spine anatomy…