Moderator: Michael D. Daubs, MD
This one-hour symposium will cover the treatment of axial lower back pain in patients with degenerative discs. Faculty will present an update on the current literature for the use of MRI imaging, discography, and patient characteristics in determining who may be a candidate for surgical treatment of lower back pain. It will end with a debate on the appropriateness of surgery for lower back pain and a panel and audience discussion period.
Upon completion of this session, participants should gain strategies to:
- Determine both the supportive and negative evidence for the surgical treatment of lower back pain;
- Assess well defined indications and contraindications for the surgical treatment of lower back pain;
- Identify the up to date role for discography in evaluating lower back pain;
- Identify Patient characteristics that predict the best and worst outcomes.
Agenda
Introduction/ Case Presentation
Michael D. Daubs, MD
The Patient: Who is the Ideal Candidate for LBP Surgery? What are the Red Flag Patient Characteristics to Avoid?
Michael D. Daubs, MD
Imaging: Are there Valid MRI Imaging Findings that Predict an Accurate Pain Generator and Improved Surgical Outcomes? (i.e. Modic Changes, Annular Tears, Disc Degeneration)
Ryan Spiker, MD
Discography: Is there Still a Role for Discography in Evaluating Lower Back Pain?
Todd F. Alamin, MD
Debate: Surgical Treatment for Lower Back Pain
- Surgery is a Valid Option for the Treatment of Lower Back Pain
Frank M. Phillips, MD
- Surgery Has No Role in the Treatment of Lower Back Pain
William J. Sullivan, MD
Discussion (Panel and Audience)