Course Description—

THE SPINE STUDY GROUP 19th SYMPOSIUM:
Spine Surgery in 2012: Challenges, Best Practices, and New Technologies

May 1-4, 2008
Ritz-Carlton Hotel
Palm Beach,Florida

The Spine Study Group brings together a renowned faculty of clinicians, educators and researchers chosen for their expertise in the field of spinal disorders. The Ritz-Carlton, Palm Beach, Florida provides a relaxed atmosphere for physicians and healthcare providers to update their knowledge and expertise in all facets of the cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine. Non-operative and surgical treatment of various spinal disorders will be discussed. Future trends in spine surgery and healthcare will be discussed, including cost-effectiveness, government issues, and best practices. Sessions designed for audience case presentations to faculty will ensure informal interaction.

New technology will be featured, with added technical workshop demos to allow participants to become familiar with the indications & techniques for the use of these devices across a wide range of spinal disorders. Case discussions will provide a thorough understanding of the controversies associated with the many new technologies. Workshops will be arranged on a rotation basis through all stations, allowing participants to compare and contrast the benefit and pitfalls of the various systems.

EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES:
At the conclusion of the course the registrant will be able to:

• Identify disorders that affect the spine and describe current methods for evaluation and management of these disorders.
• Define operative techniques available, and express their advantages, disadvantages and indications.
• Recognize current spinal fixation technology; discuss and apply options in management of spinal disorders.
• Predict future trends in healthcare and spine surgery.

ACCREDITATION:
This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the Essential Areas and policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education through the joint sponsorship of The Cleveland Clinic Foundation Center for Continuing Education and The Spine Study Group. The Cleveland Clinic Foundation Center for Continuing Education is accredited by the ACCME to provide continuing medical education for physicians. The Cleveland Clinic Foundation Center for Continuing Education designates this educational activity for a maximum of 19.5 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity. This activity may be submitted for American Osteopathic Association Continuing Medical Education credit in Category 2.

COURSE INFORMATION:
Dates: Thursday – Sunday, May 1-4, 2008 Location: Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Palm Beach, Florida Fees: Physician $625 Fellow, Resident, P.A., R.N. $350 Spouse/Guest* $175 Registration fee includes: All course material, entrance to meeting sessions and exhibits, breakfasts, breaks, lunch, welcome reception.

*Spouse/Guest Registration includes: Spouse/Guest Hospitality with breakfast each morning, and welcome. Reception: Guest registration does not include lunch, seminar sessions, workshops, or CME credit.