Benzel EC. Biomechanics of Spine Stabilization. 3rd ed. Thieme; 2015; 568 pp; 1083 ill; $199.99
With the many advancements in spinal surgery, especially in the area of spinal stabilization, the book Biomechanics of Spine Stabilization by Edward C. Benzel (neurosurgeon and chairman at the Cleveland Clinic Neurological Institute) provides an excellent review of both the fundamentals of spine biomechanics as well as traditional and more contemporary stabilization techniques. This 3rd edition will benefit both spine surgeons and neuroradiologists who seek to expand their knowledge of this increasingly complex field. The author, along with contributions from his myriad fellows through the years, has achieved a comprehensive review of spinal biomechanics and stabilization techniques through a thorough review of the historic and current literature, and has provided many descriptive illustrations and figures.
The book is organized in the following sections:
- Overview of Fundamental Concepts
- Spine and Neural Element Pathology
- Spine Surgery
- Spine Instrumentation Constructs: General Principles
- Spine Instrumentation Construct: Region Specific Considerations
- Spine Instrumentation Constructs: Deformity Management and Prevention Strategies
- Iatrogenic Pathologies and New Spine Surgery Techniques and Technologies
- Non-Operative Spine Stabilization
- Synthesis: Putting it All Together
In regards to the neuroradiologist, this text is invaluable in understanding the biomechanical motivation of certain spinal stabilization techniques and the importance of a harmonious global alignment of the spine. A better understanding of these concepts and subsequent use of common language on the topic of spinal stabilization is certain to expand collaboration between providers of spinal care.
The author correctly utilizes the fundamentals of physics, engineering, and pathoanatomy to provide the reader with an excellent understanding of spine biomechanics and stabilization techniques that include both operative and nonoperative options. While certain topics covered in this text have been reviewed elsewhere, it is uncommon to see such a thorough review in one volume.
The comprehensive nature of this text is suitable for trainees as well as more seasoned neuroradiologists, spine surgeons, or anyone in the spine field. The text even includes study questions corresponding to each chapter, which lends itself well to self-study or even integration into a formal teaching curriculum.
The author provides an extensive and appropriate list of both historic and current references supporting each topic and recommendation that is covered, and even reviews his spine surgery treatment philosophy in the chapter “The Decision-Making Process: A Reprise,” which is often referred to as the “art of medicine.”
The text could have been further strengthened by the addition of a specific section on neuroradiologic interpretation of spine biomechanics and stabilization techniques by utilizing radiographs, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging. While there are ample images that illustrate spine stabilization techniques, they are distributed throughout the text and may have benefited from consolidation into a discreet chapter itself.
Nevertheless, Dr. Benzel has authored an excellent 3rd edition highlighting the fundamental concepts of spinal biomechanics and the evolution of spinal fixation techniques that are sure to benefit neuroradiologist and spine surgeons alike.
