title: The back of the problem.
abstract: The spinal column, and in particular the intervertebral discs that separate the vertebral bodies, provide a focal point for degenerative change and chronic pain. This article addresses the changing role of medical technology used in the therapeutic alternatives for this widespread condition.
authors.affiliation: Clinical Engineering Department, Royal Liverpool University Hospital, UK. dfw.ce@liverpool.ac.uk
authors.forename: David
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Williams
mesh_terms: D001416:Back Pain / Q000517:prevention & control*; D001705:Bioprosthesis; D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D007405:Intervertebral Disc Displacement / Q000150:complications* / Q000601:surgery*; D007595:Joint Prosthesis; D013123:Spinal Fusion / Q000295:instrumentation*; D023822:Tissue Engineering / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*