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Updated: May 18, 2026
A Teleoperated Robotic System-Assisted Percutaneous Transiliac-Transsacral Screw Fixation Technique
Published on: January 6, 2023
Minimally Invasive Percutaneous Iliac Screws: Initial 24 Case Experiences With CT Confirmation
Michael Y Wang1, Seth Williams, Praveen V Mummaneni
1*Departments of Neurological Surgery & Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Lois Pope LIFE Center†Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL‡Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, CA§Carolina Spine and Neurosurgery Center, Asheville, NC.
This study demonstrates that minimally invasive percutaneous iliac screw placement is a safe and effective technique for lumbosacral fixation. Postoperative imaging confirmed accurate screw positioning with no hardware complications, offering biomechanical advantages.
Area of Science:
- Spinal Surgery
- Orthopedic Biomechanics
- Minimally Invasive Procedures
Background:
- Percutaneous pedicle screws are standard for spinal fixation.
- Pelvic fixation offers biomechanical benefits but lacked minimally invasive options.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and accuracy of percutaneous iliac screw placement using fluoroscopic guidance.
- To determine the feasibility of minimally invasive pelvic fixation.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 24 patients undergoing percutaneous iliac screw placement.
- Fluoroscopic guidance and obturator outlet view technique were primarily used.
- Postoperative CT scans assessed screw accuracy and bony violation.
Main Results:
- 47 percutaneous iliac screws were placed in 24 patients without procedure abortion or conversion to open surgery.
- All screws were accurately positioned, confirmed by 3D CT reconstruction.
- No hardware-related complications were observed.
Conclusions:
- Minimally invasive percutaneous iliac screw placement is safe and accurate.
- This technique provides biomechanical advantages of iliac fixation with reduced soft-tissue exposure.
- High-quality intraoperative fluoroscopy is crucial for success.
