This practical guide, beautifully illustrated with line drawings and images throughout, covers the basic science, laser physics, patient selection, diagnostic maneuvers and useful imaging methods of PLDD. In addition, step-by-step instructions are given on needle placement, how to enter difficult discs, and delivery of laser energy. Also included are chapters on possible complications and how to manage them, when to consider a repeat procedure, as well as long term rehabilitation.

This practical guide, beautifully illustrated with line drawings and images throughout, covers the basic science, laser physics, patient selection, diagnostic maneuvers and useful imaging methods of PLDD. In addition, step-by-step instructions are given on needle placement, how to enter difficult discs, and delivery of laser energy. Also included are chapters on possible complications and how to manage them, when to consider a repeat procedure, as well as long term rehabilitation.

Introduction: Percutaneous Laser Disc Decompression.- Principles of Lasers.- Anatomy and Pathophysiology of Intervertebral Discs.- Familial Incidence of Disc Herniation. Epidemiologic and Genetic Evidence: A Hypothesis Suggesting That Laminectomy and Discectomy Are Counterproductive.- Patient Selection.- The Neurologic Examination.- The Role of Radiology in Percutaneous Laser Disc Decompression.- Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Lumbothoracic Spine Under Compression.- Initial Consultation and First Interview.- The Percutaneous Laser Disc Decompression Procedure.- Complications of Percutaneous Laser Disc Decompression and Their Treatments.- Postprocedure Physical Therapy.- Complicated Disc Herniations Responding to Percutaneous Laser Disc Decompression.- Unexpected Results in Patients Treated with Percutaneous Laser Disc Decompression.- Endoscopic Laser Foraminoplasty: A Treatment Concept and Two-Year Outcome Analysis.- Role of Percutaneous Laser Disc Decompression in the Treatment of Discogenic Back Pain.- Clinical Experience in 2088 Percutaneous Laser Disc Decompression Procedures.- Percutaneous Laser Disc Decompression: A 10-Year Follow-Up of Clinical Data.