Abstract: Although we have all experienced pain and witnessed it in others, there is still much uncertainty about its meanings, neurological substrates and psychological components. This talk will be a journey through contemporary understandings of the varieties of pains and their significance and treatment strategies. Contemporary health care issues in the U.S. impact pain management. Philosophy, rather than pharmacy, will be emphasized.

Bio: Dr. John D. Loeser is recognized as an expert in the surgical treatment of pain and multidisciplinary pain management. He was the Director of the Multidisciplinary Pain Center from 1982-1997. His career also focused upon pediatric neurosurgery. His research and teaching efforts have included the development of the human nervous system, neuropathic pain, low back pain and multidisciplinary pain management.

Host: Dr. John McDonald, Chairman, Department of Anesthesiology, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center

This seminar is the first of a new Theme-based Discussion series presented by the California NanoSystems Institute.