Introduction Cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) is caused by a reduction of the sagittal diameter of the cervical spinal canal as a result of congenital and/or degenerative changes in the cervical spine. It is the most common type of spinal cord…
Introduction Lumbar interbody fusion is indicated in the treatment of many degenerative lumbar spinal disorders such as spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, trauma, and diskogenic pain of the lumbar spine. Successful outcomes after lumbar interbody fusion are dependent, in large part, on…
Introduction The goals of an interbody fusion device is to restore disk height, create or maintain segmental lordosis, maintain sagittal balance, and restore weight bearing to the anterior column while bony fusion develops. Numerous cage options exist, including cages that…
Introduction Lumbar fusion procedures have become increasingly common for the treatment of various degenerative lumbar spinal conditions. Along with this upsurge is the increased utilization of interbody implants with or without traditional posterolateral instrumentation. The increasing usage of interbody cages…
Introduction As the population ages, the incidence of lumbar spinal stenosis and the number of available surgical options for its treatment continue to increase. To date, posterolateral spinal fusion via pedicle screw and rod fixation has been regarded as the…
Introduction As with any surgical procedure, interbody fusions are associated with unique complications. Given the wide variety of approaches utilized when performing an interbody fusion, it is important to recognize common complications associated with each specific technique. Recognition of these…
Summary of Key Points Minimally invasive spine surgery has gained popularity. It may be used for decompression and stabilization of all segments of the spine and spinal cord. The evolution of minimally invasive spine techniques includes more historical surgical approaches,…
Summary of Key Points Anterior subaxial fixation techniques have greatly evolved since first being described in the 1950s. Current fixation techniques involve a combination of modular interbodies, titanium plates, and screws. The composition of the interbodies (titanium, allograft, etc.) and…
Summary of Key Points A crisis requires swift and decisive action by the healthcare team. In the unlikely event of cardiac arrest, the patient in the prone position will require closed or reverse cardiopulmonary resuscitation or, rarely, a last-resort open…