Summary of Key Points • Normal motion of spinal segment depends on the structural integrity of the spinal elements. • Pressurized nucleus, taut annular fibers, and healthy ligaments and facets…
Summary of Key Points • The nucleus pulposus (NP) is capable of attracting water molecules and expands its volume through swelling. In a healthy normal state, the NP is, thus,…
Summary of Key Points • An overview of the anatomic aspects of the human spinal column is presented. • Geometric features of the vertebrae, intervertebral discs, ligaments, facet joints, and…
Summary of Key Points • Predictable and insidious biochemical changes in maturing intervertebral discs lead to degeneration and ultimately biomechanical incompetence of the disc/end plate complex. • Joint destruction and…
Summary of Key Points • Although most advances in spine surgery occurred in the 19th and 20th centuries, their roots date back several thousand years. During the antique period, some…
Summary of Key Points • The term congenital spinal anomaly describes a broad range of pathologies including defects in neural tissue and the vertebral column. • Congenital spinal anomalies may…
Summary of Key Points • The history and physical examination is of the utmost importance in determining the correct diagnosis and appropriate surgical plan in patients being evaluated for a…
Summary of Key Points • The anatomic complexity of the sacrum contributes to the difficulty of achieving adequate fixation. • The mechanical stability of the sacroiliac joint is largely due…
Summary of Key Points • The flexibility of the spine varies from region to region and is due to anatomic constraints. Within the lumbar region, there are subregional variations in…
Summary of Key Points • The field of spine biomechanics has evolved from the time of antiquity to the present. The first 2000 years provided the rich seeds with requisite…
