The rapid prototyping technique used for improved accuracy of pedicle screw placement in patients with congenital scoliosis can reduce the operation time, risk of screw misplacement and complication rate, according to a report published in the Journal of Spinal Disorders & Techniques.
Researchers examined 62 consecutive patients who received 677 pedicle screws during posterior-only hemivertebral resection to treat congenital scoliosis. There were 70 screws misplaced, which means the placement accuracy rate was 89.7 percent. The accuracy rate was higher in the thoracic spine than the lumbar spine.
Patients who were treated using conventional intraoperative fluoroscopy experienced a lower rate of accuracy in screw placement. The RP-assisted technique showed shorter operative time and higher scoliosis correction rate when compared with the fluoroscopy group. There were no neurovascular-related complications reported in the RP group.
Related Articles on Spine Surgery:
Study: Intraoperative Monitoring Safe During Pediatric Spine Surgery
Study: Lateral Mass Fixation Safe for Treating Cervical Myelopathy
Study: Positional MRI Essential for Evaluating Spondylolsis and Spondylolisthesis
Patients who were treated using conventional intraoperative fluoroscopy experienced a lower rate of accuracy in screw placement. The RP-assisted technique showed shorter operative time and higher scoliosis correction rate when compared with the fluoroscopy group. There were no neurovascular-related complications reported in the RP group.
Related Articles on Spine Surgery:
Study: Intraoperative Monitoring Safe During Pediatric Spine Surgery
Study: Lateral Mass Fixation Safe for Treating Cervical Myelopathy
Study: Positional MRI Essential for Evaluating Spondylolsis and Spondylolisthesis