Book excerpt: A single-volume reference for managing pediatric spine disorders and disease Ideal for neurosurgeons, pediatric neurosurgeons, and orthopedic surgeons, Surgery of the Pediatric Spine is a comprehensive multidisciplinary reference for the surgical management of the most frequently encountered spine problems in the pediatric patient. An overview of developmental and clinical aspects provides essential information on biomechanics, neuroimaging, preoperative evaluation, anesthesia, and neurophysiological monitoring. The book goes on to present the surgical anatomy and various approaches to the spine and spinal cord. Chapters are grouped into easy-to-reference sections that are organized by type of problem, including congenital anomalies and developmental disorders; neoplasms; vascular malformations; inflammatory and infectious diseases; neuromuscular disease; trauma; and deformities. The book also presents special techniques for the treatment of spinal deformity, such as osteotomy, vertebrectomy, VEPTR expansion thoracoplasty, and fusionless techniques. A chapter devoted to the rehabilitation of children with spinal cord injury covers the principles and key concepts in treatment, as well as the possible secondary complications and challenges that are unique to pediatric patients. Highlights: Clinical insights from well-known experts in the fields of neurosurgery, pediatric neurosurgery, and orthopedics Detailed information for each stage of management guides the reader through clinical presentation, diagnostic studies, indications, operative techniques, nonsurgical treatments, possible complications, and outcomes More than 1,000 illustrations and images demonstrate key concepts Numerous cases in selected chapters illustrate management principles and treatment outcomes An invaluable resource for multidisciplinary approaches to patient care, this comprehensive text provides readers with a solid foundation in the specific issues associated with treating the pediatric patient with spine disease and disorders.