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Multiple parallel skin markers for minimal incision lumbar disc surgery; a technical note
Kai-Jow Tsai1, Shih-Hao Chen, Po-Quang Chen
1Department of Orthopedic Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan. tsaikj@ms2.hinet.net
BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders
|April 29, 2004
Summary
Accurate spinal level localization is crucial for minimally invasive surgery. A novel tool using skin markers and an X-ray film simplifies precise surgical site identification, enabling smaller incisions.
Area of Science:
- Spinal surgery
- Surgical localization techniques
- Minimally invasive procedures
Background:
- Accurate spinal level localization is essential to prevent surgical errors.
- Minimally invasive spinal surgery necessitates precise preoperative level identification.
- Current methods like C-arm imaging pose radiation risks and are time-consuming.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce a simple, radiation-free tool for precise spinal level localization.
- To facilitate accurate surgical site determination before incision.
- To support minimally invasive approaches in spinal surgery.
Main Methods:
- Development of a surgical tool using multiple parallel skin markers.
- Markers created from a circular oven rack with 1.5 cm spacing.
- Placement of the longest marker line over the L5-S1 junction along the postero-superior iliac spine (PSIS) line.
- Utilization of a simple anteroposterior (AP) X-ray film for localization.
Main Results:
- The described tool allows for accurate localization of the intended spinal surgical level.
- The method facilitates precise incision placement based on the X-ray film.
- Incision size can be minimized to 3.0 cm, even with conventional instruments.
Conclusions:
- This simple tool effectively aids in precise spinal level localization.
- It offers a radiation-free alternative for preoperative localization.
- Enables minimally invasive techniques with reduced incision size.