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A Spine Robotic-Assisted Navigation System for Pedicle Screw Placement
Published on: May 11, 2020
Placement of percutaneous thoracic pedicle screws using neuronavigation
Udaya K Kakarla1, Andrew S Little, Steve W Chang
1Division of Neurological Surgery, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, Arizona, USA.
World Neurosurgery
|April 16, 2011
Summary
This study shows that using intraoperative Iso-C C-arm navigation for percutaneous thoracic pedicle screw fixation is a feasible technique for complex spinal fractures, with good accuracy and low complication rates.
Area of Science:
- Spinal Surgery
- Orthopedic Technology
- Minimally Invasive Procedures
Background:
- Thoracic pedicle screw fixation presents challenges due to complex anatomy and obscured landmarks.
- A novel percutaneous technique utilizing intraoperative Iso-C C-arm navigation is introduced for complex thoracic spinal fractures.
Observation:
- Six patients with unstable thoracic fractures underwent percutaneous pedicle screw fixation with Iso-C C-arm fluoroscopy assistance.
- Accuracy of pedicle screw placement was evaluated postoperatively using computed tomography.
Findings:
- The technique was applied to five acute traumatic and one osteoporotic burst fracture, fixating 19 spinal segments with 37 pedicle screws.
- Pedicle screw misplacement occurred in 16% (Grade II) and 3% (Grade III), with no neurologic consequences or need for open conversion.
- One wound infection was reported.
Implications:
- Percutaneous thoracic pedicle screw fixation with intraoperative neuronavigation is a viable option for stabilizing complex spinal fractures.
- This approach demonstrates acceptable accuracy and morbidity rates, offering a less invasive alternative to open procedures.
