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Computer Simulated Enhancement and Planning, Robotics and Navigation With Patient Specific Implants and 3-D Printed
Paul C McAfee1, Bryan W Cunningham1, Ken Mullinex1
1MedStar Orthopedic Institute, Union Memorial Hospital, Baltimore, MD, USA.
Global Spine Journal
|April 8, 2022
Summary
Preoperative measurements accurately predict optimal interbody spacer height and fit, enhancing spinal deformity correction. This retrospective study confirms the utility of middle column length measurement for precise surgical planning and outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Spine surgery
- Orthopedic surgery
- Radiographic analysis
Background:
- Accurate restoration of spinal alignment is crucial in treating deformities.
- Interbody spacers are vital for maintaining disc height and sagittal balance.
- Preoperative planning aids in achieving optimal surgical outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the precision of preoperative middle column height measurement in predicting interbody spacer fit.
- To determine if preoperative simulation can accurately guide the selection of spacer size.
- To assess the restoration of middle column height and sagittal balance postoperatively.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective cohort study of 33 interbody spacers in 21 patients.
- Preoperative planning involved simulation of spacer geometry and angular correction.
- Middle column height was measured preoperatively and postoperatively by three blinded observers.
Main Results:
- Preoperative simulation accurately predicted postoperative results in 95.2% of cases.
- A strong, statistically significant positive correlation (r=0.903, P<0.001) was found between preoperative and postoperative measurements.
- The method demonstrated high reliability across multiple observers.
Conclusions:
- Measuring preoperative middle column length is effective for predicting optimal spacer height.
- This technique aids in simultaneously restoring sagittal and coronal alignment.
- Preoperative measurement and simulation enhance the precision of interbody spacer selection and placement.
