Prospective comparative study between straight and curved probe for pedicle screw insertion.

Area of Science:

• Spine surgery
• Orthopedic surgery
• Surgical instrumentation

Background:

• Accurate pedicle screw placement is crucial for spinal fusion success.
• The choice of pedicle probe may influence insertion accuracy.
• Thoracic and lumbosacral spine anatomy presents unique challenges for screw fixation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the accuracy of pedicle screw insertion using straight versus curved pedicle probes.
• To evaluate differences in pedicle breach rates between the two probe types.
• To assess the impact of probe curvature on screw placement in the thoracic and lumbosacral spine.

Main Methods:

• Prospective, comparative, non-randomized, single-blind study design.
• Straight and curved probes used on contralateral sides of the same vertebra.
• Postoperative CT scans evaluated pedicle breaches (grades 0-3).

Main Results:

• 300 pedicle screws were analyzed in 59 patients (T4-L5).
• No significant differences in screw length, grade 0 breaches, or significant breaches (grade 2/3) between probes (p > 0.16).
• No difference in accuracy based on surgeon's dominant hand or side of insertion (p=1).

Conclusions:

• The choice between straight and curved pedicle probes does not significantly impact the accuracy of pedicle screw insertion.
• Both probe types yield comparable outcomes regarding pedicle integrity and screw placement.
• Surgeons can select either probe based on preference without compromising accuracy in thoracolumbar spine surgery.