Nuances of Percutaneous Thoracolumbar Pedicle Screw Fixation

Abstract

Minimally invasive surgical techniques have grown in popularity in recent years due to the theoretical advantages of smaller incisions, reduced muscle stripping, and a quicker postsurgical recovery [1]. The emergence of new technologies for minimally invasive placement of percutaneous subfascial pedicle screws and rods has allowed surgeons to achieve secure spinal fixation through a limited surgical approach [2–4]. The placement of percutaneous pedicle screws relies on imaging modalities, most commonly the C-arm image intensifier, to visualize the anatomic landmarks necessary for pedicle targeting [1]. The current chapter will focus on the nuances of performing percutaneous pedicle fixation in the thoracolumbar spine using C-arm fluoroscopy.