Computer-assisted percutaneous transiliac approach to tumorous malformation of the sacrum

The object of this article is to present a new, minimally invasive, percutaneous image-guided technique for surgery of tumorous malformation of the sacrum. Using one of the available CAS systems, we developed a navigable working tube through which various surgical tools may be very precisely introduced into the tumorous malformation. The tube allows us to obtain histological samples and also perform tumor resections. For sacral procedures, the working tube was introduced percutaneously into the affected area of the sacrum through the sacroiliac joint with computer assistance. For successful matching, small titanium screws were inserted into the sacrum and pelvis percutaneously before CT examination to give precise landmark points. We have used the method in 12 cases. The aim of the surgery in biopsy cases was to obtain samples for histological diagnoses of unknown tumors. In the cases of tumor resection (all were metastatic), the indication was to obtain neurological decompression and decreased local pain. The pain response was very effective in all cases. The transiliac percutaneous approach to the sacrum has proven to be a safe and well-designed procedure. It can even be performed under local anesthesia, and is thus a very effective minimally invasive tool for obtaining pain relief in cases of sacral metastasis involving the first, second, and third segments.