Clinical Efficacy and Outcome in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Low Back Pain (Bristol-Meyers/Zimmer Orthopedic Symposium Series)

In response to growing controversy surrounding the efficacy of certain therapies for low back pain, this volume brings together a panel of foremost experts to critically assess diagnostic and therapeutic modalities and to introduce decision analysis techniques that enable clinicians to provide the most efficient, cost-effective medical care. The panel objectively addresses crucial issues concerning nonoperative treatment, MRI and CT scanning, quantitative functional muscle testing, surgery for lumbar disc herniation, pedicle fixation, and the artificial disc. For each procedure, members of the panel state the pros and cons, present cost/benefit analyses relative to short- and long-term patient outcome, and formulate guidelines for optimal, appropriate use.