Diagnostic and therapeutic spinal arthroscopy.

Minimally invasive spinal surgery is an attractive alternative method for the diagnosis and treatment of a variety of spinal disorders. Minimal insult to the soft tissue structures results in rapid recovery and an early return to a functional level. Arthroscopic debridement of intervertebral disc infections, arthroscopic interbody fusion, diagnostic temporary fixation of lumbar motion segments, and intradiscal and pedicular access to the vertebral body for biopsy purposes are making inroads in the field of minimally invasive spinal surgery.