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Experience with the "fixateur interne": initial clinical results.
1HGH-McMaster Clinic, Hamilton General Hospital, Ontario, Canada.
Journal of Spinal Disorders
|March 1, 1992
Summary
Clinical outcomes with the AO spinal internal fixator (a pedicle screw rod system) varied when used by general orthopedic surgeons compared to expert reports. Results suggest limited release and certification may be needed for this spinal device.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Spinal Surgery
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- The AO spinal internal fixator is a newly developed pedicle screw rod system.
- Initial clinical reports from major spinal research centers have shown promising results.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the initial clinical outcomes of the AO spinal internal fixator in general use.
- To compare outcomes from a diverse group of surgeons with those reported by expert academic surgeons.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of clinical results over the first two years of device use.
- Data collected from a Canadian University center involving multiple orthopedic surgeons.
Main Results:
- Clinical outcomes in general use differed from those reported by expert spinal surgeons.
- The study highlights variability in outcomes when the device is used more broadly.
Conclusions:
- The AO spinal internal fixator may require a limited release strategy.
- Consideration should be given to requiring special certification for surgeons using this pedicle screw rod system.