Application of a new percutaneous multi-function pedicle locator in minimally invasive spine surgery

In this study, a new percutaneous multi-function pedicle locator was designed for personalized three-dimensional positioning of a pedicle in minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) without computer-assisted navigation technology. The proposed locator was used in a number of patients during MISS, and its advantages were analyzed. Based on the position of a pedicle determined by computed tomography (CT) and fluoroscopic images of a patient, 6 lines and 2 distances were used to determine the puncture point of a pedicle screw on skin, while 2 angles were used to indicate the direction of insertion of a pedicle guide needle from the patient's body surface. The results of the proposed locator were compared with those of the conventional freehand technique in MISS. The potential benefits of using the locator included enhanced surgical accuracy, reduced operation time, alleviation of the harmful intra-operative radiation exposure, lower costs, and shortened learning curve for young orthopedists.