A REAPPRAISAL OF INTERVERTEBRAL DISC LESIONS

Abstract

The overall management of disc lesions is reexamined on the basis of experience in treating 1,000 patients. A new classification of disc lesions is presented, grouping problems under four headings: disc prolapses, internal disc disruptions, isolated disc resorption and degenerative spondylosis. Use of this system calls for a radical change in attitudes to disc lesions. It should serve to improve clinical management, particularly in the selection of patients for surgical treatment.