Complications of surgery for discogenic disease of the spine.

Disc disease is benign and not life threatening. Its long-term prognosis is uncertain, and spontaneous recoveries are common. The decision to perform surgery thus carries with it a heavy responsibility to provide safe treatment. "Good safe surgical technique" is essential, but it is much more than a well-rehearsed routine procedure. From preoperative evaluation to surgery to postoperative care, the surgeon must look ahead to problems that might arise. Where anticipated risks cannot be avoided, they should be minimized, and when adverse events occur, active recognition will lead to early and accurate management.