“A tour de force of spine care from a master spine surgeon who has literally seen it all over the course of a four-decade career! This book is a must-read that is accessible to both the layperson and healthcare professionals. I found it both enjoyable and informative.” — Dr. Andrew J. Schoenfeld, Harvard Medical School professor and Spine editor in chief

A practical and occasionally provocative look at the state of spinal surgical care

Just a few decades ago most spine surgery was literally a gamble: maybe you’d get better and maybe you wouldn’t. Today we have the knowledge, understanding, and technology to predictably relieve pain and neurological deficits like never before — yet many patients are still getting subpar care.

Foundational knowledge of surgical spine care isn’t spreading to the medical community, let alone to patients, whose quality of life hangs in the balance. With The Back Story on Spine Care, orthopedic specialist Dr. Drew Bednar presents case studies that illuminate the common issues plaguing patients — and their treatment — today.

Back problems are among the most common health issues, and with Dr. Bednar’s insights, knowledge, and practical tips, medical professionals can provide care that leads to healthier backs and happier lives.

Drew Bednar's profile page

Drew Bednar, MD, is a founding member of the Canadian Spine Society and the first clinical professor of orthopedics at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario. His primary clinical care interest is in the evolution and delivery of seamless, effective, uncomplicated, and outcomes-predictable adult surgical spine care. He lives in Ancaster, Ontario.

“Written by one of Canada’s premier orthopedic spine surgeons, this book is a must-read for both patients and physicians. In a thoroughly entertaining manner, Bednar guides the reader through the common errors made in the treatment of common spinal conditions. Amongst the myriad of textbooks on disorders of the spine, this contribution differentiates itself with its warmth, humor and readability. The important lessons taught in this exceptional book are unlikely to be forgotten.” — Dr. Stephen I. Esses, spine surgeon, Texas Medical Center

“A tour de force of spine care from a master spine surgeon who has literally seen it all over the course of a four-decade career! This book is a must-read that is accessible to both the layperson and healthcare professionals. I found it both enjoyable and informative.” — Dr. Andrew J. Schoenfeld, Harvard Medical School professor and Spine editor in chief

“Dr. Bednar is one of the best doctors I have caring for my issues. He did a discectomy, laminectomy, multi-level fusion and a widening of my spinal cord area to help me from ending up in a wheelchair again. Having lived years with CMS, SCI and CES, having the stenosis stabilized was life-changing regarding my pain. I have had a much better quality of life since the surgery and have him to thank so much for that.” — David Norris, patient

“As a highly experienced professional, Dr. Bednar has the ability to explain in plain language the complexities of spine surgery in a way that reveals his great empathy for patients along with a pleasing sense of humor. He’s the real deal!” — Robert Burt, former patient

“Dr. Bednar describes the current state of surgical care for spinal disorders through 20 patient anecdotes in a ‘no holds barred’ fashion. He then puts forth ideas for improvements, particularly emphasizing the importance of spending time talking to and examining our patients to make the correct diagnosis and offer appropriate treatment. His explanations are in plain English with references for those who want to explore specific topics in more detail.” — David Yen, professor of surgery, Queen’s University

“Dr. Bednar’s book abounds with dos and don’ts regarding spine care and surgery. His expertise is clearly evident. Bednar outlines programs for all spine caregivers, with a strong emphasis on listening to the patient and not just looking at radiological images. The book is a must for medical students, residencies and a large number of other specialties. I would also recommend its reading to spinal surgeons, new and old.” — John Kostuik, Professor Emeritus of Orthopaedics, Johns Hopkins University

“Reading this book is like having a conversation with Dr. Bednar right in your living room. It is a wealth of information from an expert surgeon who knows his spine and how to communicate his expertise. Dr. Bednar saved me from a life in a wheelchair because of his full and complete understanding of the spine, and I will remain forever grateful.” — David Allan, patient

“Dr. Bednar’s impressive career and expertise have now been immortalized in his book, detailing his extensive experience and showcasing some of the most complex cases. An outstanding contribution to the medical community and serves as a testament to Dr. Bednar’s commitment to patient care and to his profession.” — Adrian Haigh, former patient

“Dr. Bednar’s book helps people understand spinal problems, shows weaknesses in the medical system that affects surgical outcomes and promotes people to research and advocate for themselves. Clear, concise and easy to read and understand by anyone.” — Larry Sztogryn, patient

“Very informative and a pleasure to read. So many people have been made to wait too long for spine surgery because of slow and missed diagnoses. I hope physicians read this book; they will learn a lot!” — Alexandra Kennedy, former patient