Surgical Management of Spinal Cord Injury: Controversies and Consensus reviews the controversies pertaining to the emergency, diagnostic, medical, and surgical management of spinal cord injury (SCI). In vitro studies, animal models, and clinical outcome analyses have all failed to yield incontrovertible guidelines that define the role of surgery in SCI. As a result, there is no consensus regarding the necessity, timing, nature, or approach of surgical intervention. In this concise yet comprehensive book some of the leading authorities in the field scrutinize the scientific data and summarize the foundations of rational treatment paradigms. Specific topics include: the timing of decompressive surgerythe adjunctive use of solumedrolmanagement of penetrating injuriesradiographic evaluationspinal stabilizationpediatric SCI Surgical Management of Spinal Cord Injury is an essential new book for all members of the patient care team involved in spinal cord injury.