Radiation Free 3D Optical Topographic Image-Guided Navigation for Spine Surgery-A Cadaveric Study

Area of Science:

• Spine surgery
• Medical device technology
• Surgical navigation

Background:

• Pedicle screw placement is critical for spinal stability.
• Traditional methods may involve radiation exposure.
• Advancements in navigation systems aim to improve accuracy and safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility and accuracy of the PathKeeper optical 3D spine navigation system.
• To assess real-time imaging and navigation for thoracolumbar pedicle screw placement.
• To determine the system's effectiveness in a preclinical cadaveric model.

Main Methods:

• A preclinical cadaveric study involving 8 cadavers.
• Placement of 90 pedicle screws using the PathKeeper optical navigation system.
• Assessment of accuracy using the Gertzbein-Robbins scale and postoperative CT imaging.

Main Results:

• 100% accuracy in pedicle screw placement (90 screws) across T1-L5 vertebrae.
• All screws achieved Gertzbein-Robbins grades A or B.
• The system demonstrated 100% accuracy even with surgeons inexperienced with navigation.

Conclusions:

• The PathKeeper optical navigation system is feasible and highly accurate for pedicle screw placement.
• The system offers a user-friendly interface with a swift learning curve.
• Optical navigation presents a promising, safe, and radiation-free solution for spine surgery.