High Accuracy of Three-Dimensional Navigated Kirschner-Wire-Less Single-Step Pedicle Screw System (SSPSS) in Lumbar Fusions: Comparison of Intraoperatively Planned versus Final Screw Position

TL;DR

A new minimally invasive spine surgery technique called SSPSS was found to place screws accurately without traditional tools like K-wires.

Contribution

The study demonstrates the high accuracy of a K-wire-less single-step pedicle screw system using 3D navigation in lumbar fusion surgeries.

Findings

196 out of 206 screws (95%) were placed accurately according to the planned trajectories.

No complications were recorded during the procedure.

The SSPSS workflow proved reliable without using traditional tools like K-wires.

Abstract

(1) Background: Our team has previously introduced the Single-Step Pedicle Screw System (SSPSS), which eliminates the need for K-wires, as a safe and effective method for percutaneous minimally invasive spine (MIS) pedicle screw placement. Despite this, there are ongoing concerns about the reliability and accuracy of screw placement in MIS procedures without traditional tools like K-wires and Jamshidi needles. To address these concerns, we evaluated the accuracy of the SSPSS workflow by comparing the planned intraoperative screw trajectories with the final screw positions. Traditionally, screw placement accuracy has been assessed by grading the final screw position using postoperative CT scans. (2) Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of patients who underwent lumbar interbody fusion, using intraoperative 3D navigation for screw placement. The planned screw trajectories were saved in the navigation system during each procedure, and postoperative CT scans were used to evaluate the implanted screws. Accuracy was assessed by comparing the Gertzbein and Robbins classification scores of the planned trajectories and the final screw positions. Accuracy was defined as a final screw position matching the classification of the planned trajectory. (3) Results: Out of 206 screws, 196 (95%) were accurately placed, with no recorded complications. (4) Conclusions: The SSPSS workflow, even without K-wires and other traditional instruments, facilitates accurate and reliable pedicle screw placement.

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