Advances in spine research and molecular imaging will redefine early stage spine disease. In vivo molecular imaging will also change the way we stage spine disease including spinal tumors. Emphasis will shift from anatomical (structural) imaging to integrated anatomical and in vivo biochemical imaging. Biochemical evidence of spine disease will likely precede structural pathology and classic signs and symptoms. Molecular imaging will be used to identify the molecular (biochemical) borders of tumors/lesions in contrast to focusing on structural boundaries of pathology. In most cases the biochemical borders of a lesion will extend beyond the more obvious structural borders seen on routine imaging studies. The future will bring about a more aggressive search for chemical and genetic biomarkers of disease. This will include biomarkers acquired through lab work, imaging and biopsies. Disease biomarkers will be correlated to help stratify the stages of spine disease.
Next: Future Role of Physicians and Spine Specialists (Spinecare Team)
Welcome to the Inform a Colleague area of the Academy Website. The American Academy of Spine Physicians (AASP) strives to implement new and more efficient methods for members to communicate with other healthcare professionals. One of the most effective tools is the online "Inform a Colleague" function. This function can be used to expand and educate your spinecare referral network. It also represents a resource to conveniently inform others about trends in spinecare and about offers of organizations such as the American Academy of Spine Physicians (AASP), the International Spine Association (ISA). The link library also contains an application for membership with the AASP.
The online "Inform a Colleague" feature provides an invaluable time-saving service for keeping spinecare professionalsup-to-date, expanding the spinecare network, stimulating interdisciplinary referrals and for inviting colleagues to join the AASP. The library of links is always being updated with useful information and resources. The linked messages can be used to
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Member:
This level of membership is for physicians (MD, DC, DO) whose practice/interest includes patients with spinal disorders. ($250)
Affiliate Member:
This level of membership is for allied healthcare professionals involved in spinecare and/or spine research. This includes physical therapists, massage therapists, exercise physiologists, nurse practitioners, nurses, physician's assistants, diagnostic technicians, surgical technicians, exercise instructors, personal trainers and individuals who hold a PhD and work in the field of spinecare. ($150)
Candidate Member:
This level of membership is for residents, fellows and students who have an interest in spinecare. ($35)
Membership will automatically renew each calendar year starting from the date of membership renewal or membership acceptance unless the AASP is specifically notified in writing by the member at least 30 days prior to their renewal date. Please address all correspondence to the AASP Office of Member Services.
Review the accuracy of your contact information and practice profile information including your email address. To update your profile online go to spinephysicians.org and login using your unique member ID and PIN as noted below.
Please notify the AASP if you no longer meet membership criteria. This includes maintaining an active license to practice.