Researchers examined 67 patients undergoing minimally invasive placement of lumbar pedicle screws using a navigated, image-guided technique. Electromyography monitoring of lumbar nerve roots was used in all. In one group, 24 patients received a preoperative CT scan merged with intraoperative two-dimensional fluoroscopy images. The second group of 43 patients received intraoperative three-dimensional fluoroscopy images as the source for the guidance.
The rate of pedicle screw misplacement was 6.4 percent in the first group compared to 1.6 percent in the second group. There were no cases of neurologic injury from suboptimal placement of screws. EMG warnings were also lower in the second group.
Read the abstract for “A Comparison of CT-based Navigation Techniques for Minimally Invasive Lumbar Pedicle Screw Placement.”
Read other coverage on spine studies:
– Study Finds Spine Surgeons Agree on When to Perform Surgery, Disagree on the Appropriate Procedure
– Study Examines Medicolegal Suits Associated With Cervical Spine Surgery
– Study Outlines the Advantages of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.
