Enhanced Precision in Navigated Spine Instrumentation: A Novel Accuracy-Validation Technique Utilizing 'Accuracy Check Points'

Kolahi K, Lindvall E and Miller JD

Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, UCSF Fresno, USA

^*Correspondance to: Kolahi K 

 PDF  Full Text DOI: 10.25107/2474-1647.1039

Abstract

Background: The advancement of computer-assisted navigation provides potentially improved accuracy in spine instrumentation. Relying solely on the navigation system, however, may lead to inaccurately placed screws, and potentially devastating outcomes. This concern is of particular importance in the trauma setting, where fracture fragments may easily move intraoperatively. A surgeon would benefit from a reliable surgical technique, validating the accuracy of the navigation system.Purpose: We describe a novel technique to validate the accuracy of computer navigation systems intraoperatively using “accuracy check points” (ACP). Small metallic markers are placed in bone such that the position of each mobile segment can be quickly verified.Study
Design: Case report.
Methods: A case report of an 80 year old female with a C1 posterior arch and odontoid fracture, instrumented with computer-assisted navigation. A novel technique using APC’s was employed intraoperatively.Results: The patient’s cervical fractures were instrumented and stabilized without cortical breach or neurologic injury.Conclusion: We suggest the use of accuracy check points to validate accuracy during computernavigated surgery.

Keywords

Computer; Navigation; Spine; Accuracy; Checkpoint; Validation; Instrumentation; Screw; Fracture; Trauma

Cite the article

Kolahi K, Lindvall E, Miller JD. Enhanced Precision in Navigated Spine Instrumentation: A Novel Accuracy-Validation Technique Utilizing 'Accuracy Check Points'. Clin Surg. 2016; 1: 1039.