The official publication of the International Society for the Study of the Lumbar Spine this volume is the most authoritative and up-to-date reference on the lumbar spine. This edition provides more balance between basic science and clinical material and has been completely reorganized for easy reference. New chapters cover gene therapy outcomes assessment and alternatives to traditional nonoperative treatment. The editors have also added chapters on preparation for surgery surgical approaches spinal instrumentation and bone grafts. Chapters on specific disorders have a consistent structure definition natural history physical examination imaging nonoperative treatment operative treatment postoperative management results of surgery and complications.