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STUDY DESIGN A comparative study of facet joint violation (FJV) using two percutaneous surgical techniques. OBJECTIVE To compare the rate of iatrogenic FJV and medial pedicle wall breach between two methods of percutaneous pedicle screw instrumentation in the thoracic and lumbar spine. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Variable iatrogenic damage to the facet joints has been reported to occur with percutaneous pedicle screw techniques, compared with the open approach, which has been associated with adjacent segment disease. Technical variations of percutaneous pedicle screw placement may pose different risks to the facet joint. METHODS Attending spine surgeons percutaneously placed pedicle screws in seven human cadaveric spines from T2 to L5. At each level, screws were instrumented on one side using the 9 or 3 o'clock reference point of the pedicle on the posteroanterior view with a lateral-to-medial trajectory (LMT) and on the contralateral side using the center of the pedicle with an owl's eye trajectory (OET). Postoperative screw placement was assessed with computed tomography and then open cadaveric dissection. Outcome measures included FJV and medial pedicle wall breach. RESULTS Overall, 17 of 105 screws placed with an LMT versus 49 of 105 screws placed with an OET violated or abutted the facet joint (P

Introduction: Use of pedicle screw (PS) systems for spinal stabilization has become increasingly common in spine surgery. The technique and principle for pedicle screw instrumentation as well as anatomical landmarks of screw placement, however are common to all systems. The purpose of this study is to compare accuracy of pedicle screw placement with conventional and navigation techniques. Aim: To compare the accuracy of pedicle screw positioning between conventional and a new navigation system for the spine. Materials and Methods: It was a retrospective study in which 40 patients were randomly selected during the period between Jun-2014 to Jun-2016, operated for posterior fixation either through conventional and navigational spine surgery. Two independent observers analysed digital axial CT slices of all instrumented pedicles, with individual and consensus interpretation for each screw. A simple grading system (LAINE’s grading) was devised for evaluation of screw position. Results and Discussion: Overall accuracy of navigation technique is 95.89% (140/146) with 6 PS breach with laine’s grade 1 error all occurs in thoracic level, doesn’t results into any type of complications in manner of neurologic deficit or CSF leakage or dural tear etc. Overall accuracy of conventional PS placement is 89.84% (113/128) with 4 PS having grade 2 error and 11 PS having grade 3 error mainly occurs in thoracic level but none causes complication in any form i.e.; neurologic deficit, CSF leak, revision surgery etc. Conclusion: From our study, despite of high cost, preoperative registration and matching, more steep learning curve, needful of technician throught surgery, navigation surgery is better option in thoracic PS placement and spinal deformities due to complex morphology and anatomy of thoracic pedicles with rib cage obscuring fluoroscopic visualization making conventional surgery difficult with high rate of pedicle breach.

Type of study: Retrospective study Objectives: To evaluate correlation between flexibility, implant density on curve correction in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis Materials and methods: We retrospectively reviewed all consecutive patients of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis who underwent single stage posterior-only correction and instrumented spinal fusion at a single centre between 2013 and 2015 performed by single surgeon. All cases of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis treated with all pedicle screw instrumentation were included. A total of 30 patients were studied, which included 20 females and 10 males. Correlation between implant density, flexibility and curve correction was investigated with pearson correlation coefficient. Results: Average flexibility was 41.86%. Average implant density for rigid curves was 54.49%, flexible curves was 58%. Average curve correction for rigid curve was 60.22%, flexible curves79.56%.The correlation coefficient for curve correction and implant density was 0.096 for flexible curves, 0.075 for rigid curves, both were statistically not significant. The correlation coefficient for flexibility and curve correction was 0.578 for flexible curves and 0.506 for rigid curves which was statistically significant for rigid curves. Conclusion: There was minimal positive correlation correlation between implant density and curve correctability in both flexible and rigid curves not statistically significant. There is positive correlation between flexixibility & curve correctability in both flexible and rigid curves which is significant in rigid curves.

Introduction: The dorso lumbar segment of spine (D10 to L2) is an unstable between fixed dorsal and mobile lumbar spine. The Hartshill rectangle fixation is a modification spinal instrumentation fixation. The rectangle formed allows it to fit snugly against the lamina and provides good rotational stability. While Pedicle screw instrumentation also place instrumentation within the spinal canal thus lessens the risk of neural injury. Aim: Is to comparative evaluation of pedicular screw fixation and hartshill ring in dorsolumbar spinal injuries in terms of stability, functional outcome and postoperative complications. Materials and method: Total no of patients was 50 (25 each). Conclusion: Hartshill ring fixation is safe and simpler method, however pedicular screw fixation require more instruments, but it is more firm and and stable fixation.

Image-guided surgery using intraoperative cone-beam CT and navigation improves screw placement accuracy rates. However, this technology is associated with high acquisition costs. The aim of this study is to evaluate the costs of revision surgery from symptomatic pedicle screw malposition to justify whether the costs of acquiring intraoperative navigation justify the expected benefits. This is a retrospective cost-effectiveness analysis of consecutive patients who had pedicle screw instrumentation using intraoperative cone-beam CT and navigation compared with patients who underwent freehand pedicle screw instrumentation at our institution over 4 years. The costs associated with revision surgery for symptomatic pedicle screw malposition (excess length of stay, intensive care, theatre time, implants and additional outpatient appointments) were calculated. A total of 19 patients had symptomatic screw malpositioning requiring revision surgery. None of these patients had screws inserted under navigation. Revision surgery accounted for an extra 304 bed days and an additional 97 h theatre time. The total extra spent over 4 years was £464,038. When compared to the costs of revision surgery for screw malpositioning, it was cost neutral to acquire and maintain this technology. Intraoperative image-guided surgery reduces reoperation rates for symptomatic screw malposition and is cost-effective in high volume centers with improved patients outcomes. High acquisition and maintenance cost of such technologies is economically justifiable.

Background: A variety of techniques have been utilized to improve the accuracy of pedicle screw instrumentation. Recently, a novel handheld computerized drill system, IntelliSense Drill Technology, has been used in orthopedic trauma to improve drilling accuracy and reduce radiation and iatrogenic injury. The specialized drill technology detects changes in cortical density to prevent inadvertent cortical violation. The aim of this study is to assess the ability of this system to identify pedicle trajectories in the thoracic and lumbar spine compared to a standard freehand technique. Methods: Two spine surgeons, including 1 senior-level and 1 junior-level attending drilled pedicle screw tracts using a freehand technique and computerized drill technology in 4 cadaveric spines from T2 to S1. A total of 134 pedicle screws were placed, including 70 by the senior surgeon and 64 by the junior surgeon. Cortical violations were assessed using computed tomography after instrumenting each pedicle tract, and procedure time for insertion of pedicle screws was recorded. Results: A total of 15 (22.4%) and 12 (18.2%) pedicle violations were noted using the freehand and computerized drill technique, respectively (P = .767). Perforations using the computerized drill decreased from 31.1% in the first attempt to 5.9% in the second attempt (P = .027). Mean drill time per pedicle using the freehand and computerized drill techniques were comparable (12.2 ± 8.4 versus 12.1 ± 13.2, P = .871), and both surgeons had an improvement in procedure time using the computerized drill (surgeon 1: 12.3 ± 13.7–5.7 ± 3.8 [SD], P = .059; surgeon 2: 20.3 ± 20.0–10.4 ± 5.6 [SD], P = .063). Conclusions: We demonstrate the use of a novel drill technology for placement of pedicle screws in the thoracic and lumbar spine. After an initial learning curve, this technology is comparable to use of a freehand technique by both a senior-level and a junior-level attending surgeon in a cadaveric model. Further investigation is needed to identify the clinical role of this technology in spine surgery.

Background: Here, we present our experience with the minimally invasive (MI) transpsoas approach for lumbar corpectomy and stabilization. Transpsoas approach accesses the lumbar spine and includes both the direct lateral interbody fusion and extreme lateral interbody fusion techniques. Both procedures utilize a tubular retractor system which facilitates adequate retraction and direct visualization of the target, while supposedly reducing soft tissue trauma. Case Description: We evaluated two patients, one with a traumatic L2 wedge compression fracture and the other with an L3 pathological compression fracture due to multiple myeloma. Both patients underwent MI transpsoas lumbar corpectomy, anterior column reconstruction with an expandable cage, and posterior pedicle screw instrumentation to correct a kyphotic deformity. Both patients were mobilized on the 1st postoperative day and experienced significant postoperative pain relief. Conclusion: In two cases involving L2 and L3 compression fractures, MI transpsoas lumbar corpectomy was safely performed, with reduced perioperative and postoperative morbidity. Here, the transpsoas approach also allowed for early mobilization, adequate postoperative biomechanical stability, and resulted in immediate good outcomes.

Objective We sought to compare the radiologic outcomes for different distal fusion levels in a rigid curve with major thoracolumbar and lumbar (TL/L) adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) using rod derotation (RD) with direct vertebral rotation (DVR) after pedicle screw instrumentation (PSI). Methods This study finally enrolled 28 patients who were diagnosed with AIS in rigid curve with major TL/L curves, treated by PSI with RD and DVR and with a minimum 2-year follow-up. Patients were divided into 2 groups, L3 and L4, on the basis of the distal fusion level at the lowest instrumented vertebra (LIV) of L3 or L4. Results There was no significant difference in TL/L curve, thoracic (minor), and compensatory (caudal) curves between the L3 and L4 groups either postoperatively (P = 0.162, 0.426, and 0.762, respectively) or at the last follow-up (P = 0.952, 0.620, and 0.562, respectively). The overall prevalence of unsatisfactory results was 42.9% (12/28 patients). The prevalence of unsatisfactory results was 61.1% (11/18) in the L3 group and 10% (1/10) in the L4 group, which was significantly different (P Conclusions Unsatisfactory results occurred more often in the L3 group than in the L4 group, and unsatisfactory results had significant influence on progression of TL/L and distal compensatory curves. Such progression was closely correlated with deteriorating LIV disk angle in the L3 group. Therefore if the curve is rigid, LIV should be extended to L4 to avoid the adding-on phenomenon in the treatment of major TL/L AIS using RD with DVR after PSI.

Objectives To describe the learning curve of pedicle screw placement using robot-assisted spine surgery of an experienced neurosurgeon and 2 supervised neurosurgical fellows. Methods The first 120 cases of robot-assisted spine surgery at our institution were assessed. Patient variables included age, body mass index, and indication for surgery. Intraoperative variables included the vertebral level of screw placement, number of screws placed by each operator, intraoperative blood loss, and operative time. Postoperative variables included length of stay, discharge disposition, 30-day readmissions, wound complications, and hardware revisions. Screw accuracy was determined with image overlay analysis comparing planned screw trajectory on the navigation software with the intraoperative computed tomography scan with final screw placement. Two-dimensional accuracy was determined for the tip of the screw, tail of the screw, and angle at the screw was placed. The supervising physician and first fellow began utilizing the robot concurrently upon its arrival, and the second fellow began using the robot after the system had been in place for 7 months. Results Both experienced surgeon and first fellow displayed a learning curve and achieved statistically significant improvement of accuracy after 30 screws. The second fellow had significantly better accuracy than the experienced surgeon in his first 30 screws. There were no complications from hardware placement in either group. There were no returns to the operating room for hardware issues. Conclusions Robot-assisted spine surgery is a safe, accurate method of pedicle screw instrumentation. Our data show similar learning adaptation rates for the first fellow and the experienced surgeon. Techniques learned by the attending surgeon were immediately transferable to a new learner, who was able to achieve a faster learning curve than both the first fellow and the experienced surgeon.

Pedicle screw instrumentation is widely used for spinal deformity correction and fusion in adolescents for idiopathic scoliosis. The goal is to achieve and sustain good alignment in all 3 planes. We compared 2 different cobalt-chromium (CoCr) rod designs with different stiffnesses with regard to the restoration of coronal and sagittal balance in adolescents operated on for idiopathic scoliosis.A prospective comparative study was made of 90 consecutive adolescents, mean age (standard deviation) 15.6 years (2.1 years), with idiopathic scoliosis who underwent posterior spinal fusion by the use of bilateral segmental pedicle screw instrumentation (PSI) with 6.0 Co-Cr rods. Fifty-four adolescents (43 girls) were operated on by the use of circular rods and 36 (27 girls) by the use of sagittal reinforced rods, with a 2-year follow-up.Preoperative major coronal curves were similar and at 2 years: 11° (5.0) and 17° (7.2) with correction percentages of 78% (10) and 69% (12) in the circular and reinforced rod groups (P0.01). Thoracic kyphosis at 2 years measured 16° (7) and 21° (6) in the circular and reinforced rod groups (P0.01). The number of patients with hypokyphosis was lower in the reinforced rod group at 2 years (P = 0.02). In the reinforced rod group, there was a negative correlation between coronal correction and thoracic kyphosis (r = -0.52, P0.01).Both circular and sagittal reinforced 6.0-mm CoCr rods provide adequate coronal correction for adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis. The use of sagittal reinforced rods provided better thoracic kyphosis restoration and a lower risk for postoperative hypokyphosis.

Minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody debridement and fusion (MiTLIDF) with percutaneous pedicle screw instrumentation (PSI) is a less invasive treatment for lumbar spondylodiscitis.Patients with single-level lumbar spondylodiscitis were surgically treated by interbody debridement and fusion through an anterior or transforaminal approach combined with open or percutaneous PSI (group A: anterior debridement and interbody fusion with open posterior PSI; group B: transforaminal lumbar interbody debridement and fusion [TLIDF] with open posterior PSI; group C: anterior debridement and interbody fusion with percutaneous PSI; group D: MiTLIDF with percutaneous PSI). Perioperative data, fusion status, infection-free survival, and clinical outcome measurements were compared among the 4 surgical groups.A total of 82 patients were included in this study. TLIDF was associated with shorter operative time when compared with the anterior approach (group A: 302.8 ± 59.9 minutes; group B: 209.2 ± 31.0 minutes; group C: 260.6 ± 62.5 minutes; group D: 207.1 ± 33.6 minutes; P0.001). Percutaneous PSI resulted in less intraoperative blood loss (group A: 907.5 ± 253.7 mL; group B: 859.4 ± 201.2 mL; group C: 532.9 ± 193.7 mL; group D: 399.1 ± 84.3 mL) and reduced immediate postoperative pain (group A: 5.5 ± 0.9; group B: 4.9 ± 0.9; group C: 3.9 ± 0.7; group D: 3.2 ± 0.7) than open PSI (P0.001). There were no significant differences in terms of overall infection-free survival (P = 0.936).This study demonstrated MiTLIDF with percutaneous PSI is a safe and effective treatment for lumbar spondylodiscitis while incurring no adverse effects in terms of fusion rate, functional recovery, and infection eradication.

Pedicle screw instrumentation is a widely used technique for fixating the spine in fusion surgery. One of the complications associated with pedicle screw placement is when a screw breaches the pedicle medially and causes the patient radicular pain or numbness or weakness. Revising a breached pedicle screw in a patient who has undergone a multilevel fusion surgery often requires that the patient undergo a very invasive revision surgical procedure. Here the authors present a technical note on decompressing an S1 nerve compressed by a breached pedicle screw by performing an endoscopic surgical approach through a 1-cm incision and drilling down the threads of the pedicle screw, directly decompressing the nerve without removing the screw.

Scheuermann disease is the most common cause of thoracic kyphosis in adolescent, based on the anterior vertebral wedging that develops during the adolescent growth spurt. Physical appearance in adolescence and backpain in adulthood are commonly the reasons for medical consultation. The benign natural history of scheuermann kyphosis necessitates an individualized decision making for treatment options. Surgical treatment is currently performed with multilevel Ponte-osteotomies and modern pedicle screw instrumentation that enables posterior-only correction of the deformity. A proper determination of fusion level is crucial to achieve good result and to avoid adjacent level complications.

Study Design Retrospective chart review. Purpose This study evaluated long-term surgical outcomes of computer-assisted reconstruction using transarticular or cervical pedicle screws for cervical spine lesions caused by advanced rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Overview of Literature We routinely employ C1–C2 transarticular and cervical pedicle screw instrumentation to reconstruct advanced and unstable RA cervical lesions. However, few reports are available on the long-term results of surgical reconstruction for rheumatoid cervical disorders, particularly regarding cervical pedicle screw fixation. Methods Six subjects (all female) with RA cervical lesions who underwent atlantoaxial or occipitocervical fixation and were followed for at least 10 years were retrospectively studied. A frameless, stereotactic, optoelectronic, computed tomography-based image guidance system was used for correct screw placement. Variables including the Japanese Orthopaedic Association score, EuroQol, Ranawat value, and C2–C7 angle before and 2, 5, and 10 years after surgery were assessed along with the occurrence of subaxial subluxation (SAS). Results Mean age at initial surgery was 58.2±7 years (range, 51–68 years), and mean follow-up period was 141±11 months (range, 122–153 months). Lesions included atlantoaxial subluxation (AAS, n=2) and AAS+vertical subluxation (n=4). Mean C2–C7 lordotic angle before and 2, 5, and 10 years after surgery was 20.1°±6.1°, 21.0°±4.0°, 18.8°±4.7°, and 17.8°±5.3°, respectively. SAS did not occur in cases maintaining the C2–C7 lordotic angle. In two cases where the C2–C7 lordotic angle declined from 5 years postoperatively, SAS occurred at the C2–C3 level in one and at the C4–C5 level in the other, both of which required reoperation. Conclusions Patients with rheumatoid cervical lesions who undergo atlantoaxial or occipitocervical fixation using C1–C2 transarticular or pedicle screws carry a risk of SAS for up to 10 years postoperatively, which may require reoperation.

Background Cement-augmented pedicle screw instrumentation (CAPSI) has been proven to significantly increase the biomechanical stability in the osteoporotic lumbar spine. However, besides the merits, it is responsible for the inevitable cement leakage growing with more instrumented segments and volumes involved. This study aimed to compare the biomechanical performance of pedicle screws augmented on all segments with those augmented only on the cranial and caudal vertebrae selectively. Methods The finite element model of L3-S1 was modeled with the CT data of a healthy volunteer, the solid/fenestrated pedicle screws from micro-CT scans of physical screws, and bone cement from the CT scans of a postoperative patient with CAPSI. Three different augmented strategies for pedicle screws were taken into consideration: augmentation at each pedicle trajectory (Model A), selective augmentation at the cranial and caudal pedicle trajectories (Model B), and pedicle trajectories without augmentation (Model C). A total of six surgical models were constructed: Models A, B, and C were subdivided into double segmental fusion from L4 to S1 (Models A1, B1, and C1) and multi-segment fusion from L3 to S1 (Models A2, B2, and C2). The Range of motion (ROM), stress on the cage, and stress on the fixed segments were compared among the six models. Results The ROM at the fusion segments decreased in all instrumentation models. The ROMs of Model B and Model A are similar in each direction, while that of Model C is significantly larger. The differences in the ROMs between Model A and Model B were noted to be less than 0.1°. Compared with Models A1 and A2, the peak Von Mise stress on the cage-endplate interface and pedicle screws were slightly higher in Models B1 and B2. In contrast, the stress of Models C1 and C2 increased significantly. The compressive stress was concentrated in the screw head, the cranial and caudal screws, and rods. Conclusions The selective augmentation of pedicle screws is capable of providing reliable stability in short-segment posterior fixation (2- or 3-level). It could be a potential optimal procedure to minimize the associated complications of CAPSI.

Minimally invasive spine surgery techniques for pedicle screw instrumentation are being more frequently used. They offer shorter operative times, shorter hospital stays for patients, faster recovery, less blood loss, and less damage to surrounding tissues. However, they may rely heavily on fluoroscopic imaging, and confer radiation exposure to the surgeon and team members. Use of the AIRO Mobile Intraoperative CT by Brainlab during surgery is a way to eliminate radiation exposure to staff and may improve accuracy rates for pedicle screw instrumentation. We designed a retrospective analysis of our first 12 patients who had a total of 59 pedicle screws inserted when we began to incorporate the AIRO iCT scanner to our surgical workflow. During pedicle screw insertion, projection images were saved, and compared to CT scans gone at the end of the case. We measured the distances between the projected and postprocedural screw locations, at both the screw tips and tulip heads. We observed a mean of 2.8 mm difference between the projection and postprocedural images. None of the screws inserted had any clinically significant complications, and no patient required revision surgery. Overall, iCT guided navigation with the AIRO system is a safe adjunct to spinal surgery. It decreased operator and staff radiation exposure, and helped facilitate successful MIS surgery without fluoroscopic imaging. Additional studies and research can be done to further improve accuracy and reliability.

Aims In a multicentre, randomised study of adolescents undergoing posterior spinal fusion for idiopathic scoliosis, we investigated the effect of adding gelatine matrix with human thrombin to the standard surgical methods of controlling blood loss. Patients and Methods Patients in the intervention group (n = 30) were randomised to receive a minimum of two and a maximum of four units of gelatine matrix with thrombin in addition to conventional surgical methods of achieving haemostasis. Only conventional surgical methods were used in the control group (n = 30). We measured the intra-operative and total blood loss (intra-operative blood loss plus post-operative drain output). Results Each additional hour of operating time increased the intra-operative blood loss by 356.9 ml (p < 0.001) and the total blood loss by 430.5 ml (p < 0.001). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that the intervention significantly decreased the intra-operative (-171 ml, p = 0.025) and total blood loss (-177 ml, p = 0.027). The decrease in haemoglobin concentration from the day before the operation to the second post-operative day was significantly smaller in the intervention group (-6 g/l, p = 0.013) than in the control group. Conclusion The addition of gelatine matrix with human thrombin to conventional methods of achieving haemostasis reduces both the intra-operative blood loss and the decrease in haemoglobin concentration post-operatively in adolescents undergoing posterior spinal fusion for idiopathic scoliosis. Take home message: A randomised clinical trial showed that gelatine matrix with human thrombin decreases intra-operative blood loss by 30% when added to traditional surgical haemostatic methods in adolescents undergoing posterior spinal fusion for idiopathic scoliosis. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B:395–401.

Background: Among all the thoracolumbar fractures, 50-60% affects the thoracolumbar transitional zone, and 51% AO Type C Fractures has a neurological deficit. We experienced treating a case of unstable lumbar fracture-dislocation treated with long segment pedicle screw instrumentation. Case Report: A 26-year-old man came to the ER after his back hit by a canopy while working 2 hours before admission. The motoric function was diminished from the L2-S1 level and hypoesthesia at the T12 level. Plain X-Ray showed Fracture-Dislocation Lumbar Vertebral 1-2 Denis Classification Flexion Rotation (AO Type C) ASIA A. The patient underwent reduction, decompression, and long-segment posterior pedicle screw instrumentation. Discussion: The surgery’s primary purpose is to restore alignment and stability to improve the patient’s quality of life by enabling daily activity in a wheelchair without significant pain. Short segment or long segment pedicle screw instrumentation remains a debate. In this case report, we apply long segment pedicle screw instrumentation for lumbar vertebral fracture-dislocation. Conclusion: Thoracolumbar fracture and dislocation fixation aim to restore alignment and stability, to reduce kyphotic deformity, and to decompress the spinal canal. The long segment pedicle screw instrumentation can resist the deforming force of thoracolumbar fractures and dislocations that will inevitably collapse into further kyphosis, resulting in a better outcome.

BACKGROUND CONTEXT There are a number of clinical situations that require the replacement of pedicle screw instrumentation. In adjacent segment degeneration and other revision situations, pedicle screw instrumentation is often exchanged in order to accommodate a different sized rod or different pedicle screw system. Although the screws in these revision situations are not overtly loose, the screws have been physiologically loaded for a period of time. Traditionally, pedicle screws are salvaged by up-sizing the core diameter until an interference fit is obtained in the pedicular isthmus. PURPOSE To determine if dual thread screws allow for increased fixation when revising previous pedicle screw instrumentation. STUDY DESIGN/SETTING Cadaveric biomechanical study. PATIENT SAMPLE Not applicable. OUTCOME MEASURES Not applicable. METHODS Pedicle screws were tested in the lumbar vertebrae from ten cadavers. Every pedicle was first tested with a 5.5 mm diameter standard screw using "break-in" loading. Screws were removed and replaced with one of the following four screw types: 5.5 mm Standard Thread, 5.5 mm Dual Thread, 6.0 mm Standard Thread, or 6.0 mm Dual Thread. The sizes were varied in an S curve fashion over all 10 spines to distribute the screw types over the five lumbar levels (L1 through L5). Failure testing was done using a stepwise increasing cyclic loading protocol for 100 cycles. RESULTS The average pedicle screw cut out load (N) was 133.71 +/- 30.50 and 158.53 +/- 55.28 for standard and dual thread screws, respectively. There was significantly increased pullout strength with dual thread screws compared to the standard thread design (p = 0.001). When comparing 5.5 mm dual thread screws to 6.0 mm standard thread screws, there was no difference in ultimate strength (137.3 +/- 32.47 vs 142.86 +/- 56.50, respectively). CONCLUSIONS In cases requiring replacement of pedicle screws, both upsizing core diameter and utilizing dual thread design may increase bony purchase. The was no difference in upsizing core diameter by 0.5 mm compared with changing screw pitch to a dual thread design. FDA DEVICE/DRUG STATUS This abstract does not discuss or include any applicable devices or drugs.

OBJECTIVEConcerns remain over the influence of pedicle screw instrumentation on the growth potential of an immature spine. Previous studies have reported discrepancies between animal experiments and clinical studies. The authors’ objective was to explore the influence of pedicle screw instrumentation on the growth of an immature spine at a very young age.METHODSIndividuals who met the authors’ criteria were included. Anteroposterior diameter of the vertebral body; pedicle length on both sides; and anteroposterior diameter, transverse diameter, and area of the spinal canal were measured on CT images before surgery and at the final follow-up. Parameters of instrumented vertebrae and adjacent noninstrumented vertebrae were compared. The growth value and growth percentage of each parameter were calculated. Subgroup comparisons were made in thoracic vertebrae and lumbar vertebrae. Statistical analyses were performed.RESULTSThirteen patients with a congenital spinal deformity were included in the study. The average age at surgery was 3.4 (range 2–5) years, and the average follow-up was 7.2 (range 5–11) years. Osteotomy and short instrumentation with pedicle screws were performed in each case. A total of 69 segments were measured, including 43 instrumented vertebrae and 26 immediately adjacent noninstrumented vertebrae. Significant increases in all parameters were noted at the final follow-up. In instrumented vertebrae, growth of the pedicle length and the anteroposterior diameter and area of the spinal canal increased significantly, while growth of the anteroposterior diameter of the vertebral body decreased significantly compared with noninstrumented vertebrae. Similar results were noted in the lumbar region. The shape-change phenomenon was found in noninstrumented vertebrae but was not apparent in instrumented vertebrae.CONCLUSIONSPedicle screw instrumentation may slow down growth of the vertebral body, indirectly speed up growth of the spinal canal, and hinder the shape-change phenomenon of the lumbar spinal canal. However, the influences were quite slight, and significant development did occur in instrumented vertebrae. Therefore, pedicle screw instrumentation may not have much effect on the growth of immature vertebrae in children younger than 5 years.

Study Design: Prospective randomized study. Objectives: To define the impact of an inexpensive, user-friendly, and reproducible lumbar pedicle screw instrumentation bioskills training module and evaluation protocol. Methods: Participants were randomized to control (n = 9) or intervention (n = 10) groups controlling for level of experience (medical students, junior resident, or senior resident). The intervention group underwent a 20-minute bioskills training module while the control group spent the same time with self-directed study. Pre- and posttest performance was self-reported (Physician Performance Diagnostic Inventory Scale [PPDIS]). Objective outcome scores were obtained from a blinded fellowship-trained attending orthopedic spine surgeon using Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (OSATS) and Objective Pedicle Instrumentation Score metrics. In addition, identification of pedicle breach and breach anatomic location was measured pre- and posttest in lumbar spine models. Results: The intervention group showed a 30.8% improvement in PPDIS scores, compared with 13.4% for the control group ( P = .01). The intervention group demonstrated statistically significant 66% decrease in breaches ( P = .001) compared with 28% decrease in the control group ( P = .06). Breach identification demonstrated no change in accuracy of the control group (incorrect identification from 32.2% pre- to posttest 35%; P = .71), whereas the intervention group’s improvement was statistically significant (42% pre- to posttest 36.5%; P = .0047). Conclusions: We conclude that a concise lumbar pedicle screw instrumentation bioskills training session can be a useful educational tool to augment clinical education.

In the last decades, several interspinous process devices were designed as a minimally invasive treatment option for spinal stenosis. In order to minimise surgical trauma, interspinous process devices were recently discussed as an alternative posterior fixation in vertebral interbody fusions. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of a newly designed interspinous device with polyester bands (PBs) on range of motion (RoM) and centre of rotation (CoR) of a treated motion segment in comparison with an established interspinous device with spikes (SC) as well as with pedicle screw instrumentation in lumbar fusion procedures. Flexibility tests with an applied pure moment load of 7.5 Nm were performed in six monosegmental thoracolumbar functional spinal units (FSUs) in the following states: (a) native, (b) native with PB device, (c) intervertebral cage with PB device, (d) cage with SC and (e) cage with internal fixator. The resulting RoM was normalised to the native RoM. The CoR was determined of X-ray images taken in maximal flexion and extension during testing. In flexion and extension, the PB device without and with the cage reduced the RoM of the native state to 58% [standard deviation (SD) 17.8] and 53% (SD 15.7), respectively. The SC device further reduced the RoM to 27% (SD 16.8), while the pedicle screw instrumentation had the most reducing effect to 17% (SD 17.2) (p

Background Training beginners of the pedicle screw instrumentation technique in the operating room is limited because of issues related to patient safety and surgical efficiency. Three-dimensional (3D) printing enables training or simulation surgery on a real-size replica of deformed spine, which is difficult to perform in the usual cadaver or surrogate plastic models. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the educational effect of using a real-size 3D-printed spine model for training beginners of the free-hand pedicle screw instrumentation technique. We asked whether the use of a 3D spine model can improve (1) screw instrumentation accuracy and (2) length of procedure. Methods Twenty life-size 3D-printed lumbar spine models were made from 10 volunteers (two models for each volunteer). Two novice surgeons who had no experience of free-hand pedicle screw instrumentation technique were instructed by an experienced surgeon, and each surgeon inserted 10 pedicle screws for each lumbar spine model. Computed tomography scans of the spine models were obtained to evaluate screw instrumentation accuracy. The length of time in completing the procedure was recorded. The results of the latter 10 spine models were compared with those of the former 10 models to evaluate learning effect. Results A total of 37/200 screws (18.5%) perforated the pedicle cortex with a mean of 1.7 mm (range, 1.2–3.3 mm). However, the latter half of the models had significantly less violation than the former half (10/100 vs. 27/100, p p Conclusion A life-size 3D-printed spine model can be an excellent tool for training beginners of the free-hand pedicle screw instrumentation.

A retrospective study. The optimal implant density in patients with Lenke type 1 adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is undefined, and there is no study reporting the correlation between the partitional implant density and the correction outcome. To determine whether the implant density in structural and nonstructural regions would affect the coronal correction outcome of Lenke 1A and 1B AIS. Preoperative general data and postoperative follow-up data of Lenke 1A and 1B AIS patients who received posterior fusion with the pedicle screw system were analyzed. Correlations between the implant density in structural and nonstructural regions and the correction rate of coronal Cobb angle, as well as between the correction rate and loss of the coronal correction angle during a 2-year follow-up period were analyzed. According to the implant density, the patients were classified into 2 groups: structural region group (including A1 and A2), and nonstructural region group (including B1 and B2). Differences in related parameters between the 2 groups were compared statistically. Except for the mean implant density, there was no statistical difference in the other parameters between group A1 and A2. In group B1 and B2, the correction rate of the main thoracic (MT) curve was 63.0% and 71.6% (P = .022), and the loss of the correction angle was 2.1° and 4.2°, respectively (P

Background and Aims: To compare outcomes between posterior spinal fusion of juvenile idiopathic scoliosis and adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients with a minimum of 2-year follow-up. The juvenile idiopathic scoliosis patients were fused to the stable vertebra and adolescent idiopathic scoliosis to the touched vertebra. We hypothesized that extending the spinal fusion to the stable vertebra in juvenile patients would provide similar outcomes compared with fusion to the touched vertebra in adolescents. Materials and Methods: A prospective comparative study of 21 consecutive children with juvenile (Risser 0) and 84 adolescent (Risser ⩾2) idiopathic scoliosis (1:4 ratio) undergoing bilateral segmental pedicle screw instrumentation and direct vertebral derotation with a minimum of 2-year follow-up. Results: Juvenile patients had a significantly larger main curve (58° vs 53°, p = 0.003), more fused levels (p = 0.012) and posterior column osteotomies (p = 0.014) than adolescent patients. Distal adding-on (>10°) was observed in one (4.7%) juvenile and three (3.6%) adolescent patients (p = 0.80), without the need for revisions. Scoliosis Research Society 24 total score averaged 101 in juvenile and 97 in adolescent group at 2-year follow-up (p = 0.047). Conclusion: Posterior spinal fusion with bilateral segmental pedicle screw instrumentation to the stable vertebra provides similar clinical and radiographic outcomes in juvenile patients as compared with adolescents with fusion to the touched vertebra in idiopathic scoliosis. Health-related quality of life as measured using the Scoliosis Research Society 24 questionnaire at the end of follow-up was better in the juvenile as compared with the adolescent group.

Study Design. In vitro biomechanics study. Objective. To determine whether kyphoplasty is an adequate stand-alone treatment for restoring biomechanical stability in the spine after experiencing high-energy vertebral burst fractures. Summary of Background Data. Kyphoplasty in the treatment of high-energy vertebral burst fractures has been shown by previous studies to significantly improve stiffness when used in conjunction with pedicle screw instrumentation. However, it is not known whether kyphoplasty as a stand-alone treatment may be an acceptable method for restoring biomechanical stability of a spinal motion segment post–burst fracture while allowing flexibility of the motion segment through the intervertebral discs. Methods. Young cadaveric spines (15–50 yr old; 3 males and 1 female; bone mineral density 0.27–0.31 gHA/cm3) were divided into motion segments consisting of 3 intact vertebrae separated by 2 intervertebral discs (T11–L1 and L2–L4). Mechanical testing in axial, flexion/extension, lateral bending, and torsion was performed on each specimen in an intact state, after an experimentally simulated burst fracture and postkyphoplasty. Computed tomography was used to confirm the burst fractures and quantify cement placement. Results. Between the intact and burst-fractured states significant decreases in stiffness were seen in all loading modes (63%–69%). Burst fracture increased the average angulation of the vertebral endplates 147% and decreased vertebral body height by an average of 40%. Postkyphoplasty, only small recoveries in stiffness were seen in axial, flexion/extension, and lateral bending (4%–12%), with no improvement in torsional stiffness. Large angular deformations (85%) and height loss (31%) remained postkyphoplasty as compared with the intact state. Conclusion. Lack of overall improvement in biomechanical stiffness indicates failure of kyphoplasty to sufficiently restore stability as a stand-alone treatment after high-energy burst fracture. The lack of stability can be explained by an inability to biomechanically repair the compromised intervertebral discs. Conclusion. Level of Evidence: 3

Summary The application of minimally invasive spine surgery (MIS) for treating thoracolumbar spine disorders and injuries has evolved rapidly, and the technical feasibility and safety of MIS has been well established. The successful use of MIS for treating degenerative spine diseases has broadened its scope, and this technique is now used for treating nondegenerative diseases. For spinal neoplastic diseases, MIS is suitable for patients with intradural extramedullary tumors limited to one or two spinal segments. However, the feasibility of MIS in treating intramedullary or complicated large intradural extramedullary tumors remains unclear. For traumatic spine diseases, the outcomes of percutaneous pedicle screw instrumentation are comparable with those of open pedicle screw instrumentation for treating thoracolumbar compression fractures without neurological deficits. However, the efficacy and safety of MIS for patients with advanced-type thoracolumbar fractures or neurological deficits remain debatable. Percutaneous endoscopic lavage and drainage facilitates prompt and sensitive antibiotic therapy against the offending pathogens in infectious spine diseases and is particularly suitable for patients with early-stage spinal infections or serious medical conditions. With the advances in MIS techniques and the improved knowledge regarding diseases and the anatomy of the spine, MIS can be used for treating various spine diseases.

Aim: There are different surgical techniques for massa lateralis screw instrumentation of subaxial cervical spine--those of Roy-Camille, Magerl, Anderson, and An. Each has different starting point and trajectorys of screw implantation.For each technique there is a potential risk to affect vascular and neural structures.In this paper we share our experience in using a modified Magerl's technique for stabilization of subaxial cervical spine. Method: We present a retrospective study and clinical follow-up of 27 patients operated on the occasion of cervical injury that we have used the modified technique of Magerl. In 8 patients was carried and an anterior decompression and stabilization. Results: In these patients was carried posterior or combined -- posterior and anterior stabilization. The posterior fixation was massa lateralis with this modified technique of Magerl with multiaxial screws. With this technique were inserted 160 multiaxial screws and the most common length of the implants were 108 mm (108 from 160 or 67.5%). Conclusion: Based on world literature, experience and analysis of clinical cases, we believe that this modified technique for subaxial cervical fixation is effective (the pull-out strength approach to the strength of pedicle screw instrumentation) and is much safer. Key words: Posterior subaxial instrumentation, Magerl's technique, suaxial instability.

Introduction: Although very common extrapulmonary form of tuberculosis, the tuberculous spondylitis (TBS) rarely affects very young children ( Case report: We present a case of 4-year old girl with tuberculosis of the tracheobroncheal lymph nodes and TBS affecting Th5-9 vertebral bodies. It was in a poor general condition, malnourished, with severe kyphotic deformity (80°), accompanied with giant midthoracic gibbus, pre- and paravertebral abscess and spinal cord compression on the punctum maximum of the kyphosis. It was neurologically intact at presentation and at time of surgery. It was treated with four tuberculostatic drug combination (Streptomycin, Rifampicn, Isoniazid, Pyrazinamid). It underwent surgery consisting of dorsal decompression – laminectomies Th6-8 followed by unilateral arthropediculotomies at three levels and paravertebral debridment. Pedicle screw instrumentation was done bilaterally at Th 4,5, 9 and 10 vertebrae. An expandable cervical titanium cage was placed instead of the destructed vertebral bodies. With distraction of the intervertebral cage and contraction of the pedicle screw system, correction of the kyphotic deformity was achieved (down to 23° on postoperative CT). Conclusions: Even in very young children pedicle screw fixation and intervertebral reconstruction with expandable cage is feasible and allows deformity correction and stabilization.

We sought to assess the validity of a virtual surgical training system on lumbar pedicle screw placement for residents.Ten inexperienced residents were randomly assigned to the simulation training (ST) group (n = 5) and control group (n = 5). The ST group performed the lumbar pedicle screw placement on the virtual surgical training system, and the control group was given an introductory teaching session before the cadaver test. A total of 8 adult fresh cadavers including 5 males and 3 females were collected and randomly allocated to the 2 groups. Each group performed the bilateral L1-L5 pedicle screw instrumentation in the cadaver specimens, respectively. Accuracy was assessed by computed tomography after instrumentation. The screw penetration rates, acceptable rates, and average screw penetration distance of the 2 groups were compared using statistical analysis.The screw penetration rate of the ST group (12.5%) was significantly lower than the control group (37.5%, P0.05). The screw acceptable rates in ST and control groups were 100% and 85%, respectively, with statistical differences between each other (P0.05). There was also a statistically significant difference of the average screw penetration distance between the ST (1.37 ± 0.62 mm) group and control group (2.42 ± 0.51 mm, P0.05).The virtual surgery simulation with greater accuracy is superior to the traditional teaching methods in surgical training of pedicle screw placement and can be used as a promising alternative for training of neurosurgical procedures.

The cervical screw placement is one of the most difficult procedures in spine surgery, which often needs a long period of repeated practices and could cause screw placement-related complications. We performed this cadaver study to investigate the effectiveness of virtual surgical training system (VSTS) on cervical pedicle screw instrumentation for residents. A total of ten novice residents were randomly assigned to two groups: the simulation training (ST) group (n = 5) and control group (n = 5). The ST group received a surgical training of cervical pedicle screw placement on VSTS and the control group was given an introductory teaching session before cadaver test. Ten fresh adult spine specimens including 6 males and 4 females were collected, and were randomly allocated to the two groups. The bilateral C3–C6 pedicle screw instrumentation was performed in the specimens of the two groups, respectively. After instrumentation, screw positions of the two groups were evaluated by image examinations. There was significantly statistical difference in screw penetration rates between the ST (10%) and control group (62.5%, P

STUDY DESIGN A single-center, prospective study. OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of rib anomaly on surgical curve correction outcome in congenital scoliosis. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA The presence of rib anomalies may complicate surgical correction of congenital scoliosis. The outcome of surgical correction, however, has not been documented in scoliotic patients with and without rib deformity. METHODS Percent Cobb angle decrease (CAD) after operation was calculated in 94 patients with congenital scoliosis. Posterior segmental pedicle screw instrumentation (posterior approach) with or without previous anterior spinal release and fusion (anterior approach) was the method of correction. The impact of vertebral anomaly and rib deformity on CAD was examined. RESULTS Although the type of vertebral anomaly had no significant effect on the mean CAD, it was significantly lower in 56 patients with rib deformity compared with that in the remaining patients without rib deformity (35.14%±15.83% vs. 51.54%±17.82%, P

MIS spine surgeons have rapidly adopted the retroperitoneal transpsoas approach since its first introduction in 2001. Its use has been greatly expanded from simple indirect decompression from degenerative disc disease to complex spinal deformity correction and traumatic vertebral fractures. The technique offers a rapid approach to the disc space and availability of variety of large interbody grafts with excellent fusion rates whether used as stand-alone, with lateral plating, or with pedicle screw instrumentation for support. The advantage of using retroperitoneal transpsoas approach is faster operative time, less anesthesia to the patient, quicker recovery, and lower blood loss. However, thorough anatomical understanding of the surrounding lumbar plexus and meticulous technique must be observed to avoid potential serious complications. In this chapter we examine crucial surgical anatomy necessary for a successful outcome, provide detailed surgical technical notes, discuss surgical indications and patient selection, and finally review all potential complications and complication avoidance.

Minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS TLIF) has become an increasingly popular method of lumbar arthrodesis. However, there are few published studies comparing the clinical outcomes between unilateral and bilateral instrumented MIS TLIF. Sixty-five patients with degenerative lumbar spine disease were enrolled in this study. Thirty-one patients were randomized to the unilateral group and 34 to the bilateral group. Recorded demographic data included sex, age, preoperative diagnosis, and degenerated segment. Operative time, blood loss, hospital stay length, complication rates, and fusion rates were also evaluated. The Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) score and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) pain score data were obtained. All patients were asked to follow-up at 3 and 6 months after surgery, and once every 6 months thereafter. The mean follow-up was 26.6 months (range 18–36 months). The two groups were similar in sex, age, preoperative diagnosis, and operated level. The unilateral group had significantly shorter operative time, lower blood loss, and shorter hospital time than the bilateral group. The average postoperative ODI and VAS scores improved significantly in each group. No significant differences were found between the two groups in relation to ODI and VAS. All patients showed evidence of fusion at 12 months postoperatively. The total fusion rate, screw failure, and general complication rate were not significantly different. Results showed that single-level MIS TLIF with unilateral pedicle screw fixation would be sufficient in the management of preoperatively stable patients with lumbar degenerative disease. It seems that MIS TLIF with unilateral pedicle screw instrumentation is a better choice for single-level degenerative lumbar spine disease.

STUDY DESIGN Fresh-frozen human cadaveric biomechanical study. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the biomechanical consequence of pedicle screw reinsertion in the thoracic spine. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA During pedicle screw instrumentation, abnormal appearance on fluoroscopic imaging or low current reading with intraoperatively evoked electromyographic stimulation of a pedicle screw warrants complete removal to reassess for pedicle wall violation or screw malposition. However, screw fixation strength has never been evaluated biomechanically after reinsertion using a previous pilot hole and trajectory. METHODS Thirty-one thoracic individual fresh-frozen human cadaveric vertebral levels were instrumented bilaterally with 5.5-mm titanium polyaxial pedicle screws, and insertional torque (IT) was measured with each revolution. A paired comparison was performed for each level. Screw reinsertion was performed by completely removing the pedicle screw, palpating the tract, and then reinserting along the same trajectory. Screws were tensile loaded to failure "in-line" with the screw axis. RESULTS There was no significant difference for pedicle screw pullout strength (POS) between reinserted and control screws (732 ± 307 N vs. 742 ± 320 N, respectively; P = 0.78). There was no significant difference in IT between initial insertion for the test group (INI) (0.82 ± 0.40 N·m) and control (0.87 ± 0.50 N·m) (P = 0.33). IT for reinserted screws (0.58 ± 0.47 N·m) had significantly decreased compared with INI and control screws (29% decrease, P = 0.00; 33% decrease, P = 0.00, respectively). The test group screws in the thoracic spine had significant correlations between initial IT and POS (r = 0.79, P = 0.00), and moderate correlations between reinsertion IT and POS in the thoracic spine (r = 0.56, P = 0.00). CONCLUSION Despite a significant reduction in pedicle screw IT, there was no significant difference in pedicle screw POS with reinsertion. Therefore, when surgeons must completely remove a pedicle screw for tract inspection, reinsertion along the same trajectory may be performed without significantly compromising fixation strength. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE N/A.

Objectives Untreated severe scoliosis is associated with increased mortality and remains a significant surgical challenge. Few studies have reported mortality after the surgical treatment of severe scoliosis beyond a 2-year follow-up. The objectives of this study were to evaluate mortality beyond standard 2-year follow-up and compare radiographic outcomes using hybrid or pedicle screw instrumentation for severe scoliosis. Methods We evaluated 32 consecutive patients [11 males, mean age at surgery 15.3 (range 10.7–20.7) years] operated for a scoliosis of 90° or more using either hybrid ( n = 15) or pedicle screw ( n = 17) instrumentation. The follow-up time averaged 2.9 (2.0–6.6) years for radiographic and quality of life measurements and 5.5 years (2.0–9.0) years for mortality data. Of these patients, one had adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, three secondary scoliosis, and 28 neuromuscular scoliosis. Twelve patients in the hybrid and two patients in the pedicle screw groups underwent anteroposterior surgery ( p < 0.001), and three patients in both groups had an apical vertebral column resection. Results One (3.1 %) patient died during follow-up for severe pneumonia. Preoperatively, the mean magnitude of the major curve was 109° (90°–127°) in the hybrid and 100° (90°–116°) in the pedicle screw groups ( p = 0.015), and was corrected to 45° (19°–69°) in the hybrid and 27° (18°–40°) in the pedicle screw groups at the 2-year follow-up ( p < 0.001), with a mean correction of the major curve of 59 % (37–81 %) in the hybrid versus 73 % (60–81 %) in the pedicle screw groups, respectively ( p = 0.0023). There were six postoperative complications, including one transient spinal cord deficit necessitating reoperation in the hybrid group as compared with five complications in the pedicle screw group ( p = 0.53). Conclusions The mid-term mortality rate after the surgical treatment of severe scoliosis was low. Severe scoliosis can be treated safely with significantly better correction of the spinal deformity using pedicle screws than hybrid instrumentation.

To evaluate whether anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) is superior to transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) in cases of post-discectomy syndrome (PDS).In this retrospective study, we analyzed the consecutive results of 83 patients operated for PDS refractory to conservative treatment. A total of 46 patients underwent ALIF via a retroperitoneal approach; 37 patients underwent TLIF. Both fusion types were augmented by means of pedicle screw instrumentation. Early and delayed complications were registered within the course of hospitalization or outpatient clinical follow-up, respectively. Parameters such as patient satisfaction, current pain levels, pain medication, and change in work ability were obtained via telephone follow-up.Overall, 81.9% of patients were available for follow-up. Both ALIF and TLIF significantly improved back and leg pain (p0.01) and were described as satisfying operations by 75.8% and 73.3% of the patients, respectively. No significant difference between ALIF and TLIF results could be observed. Complications included dural tears, screw malposition, bleeding from major vessels (ALIF), abdominal wall insufficiency (ALIF), and nerve root injury (TLIF). One patient in the ALIF group and seven patients in the TLIF group required fusion extensions to adjacent levels within the observation period (observation period was 34 and 71 months, respectively).Both ALIF and TLIF techniques can be applied for PDS with equally good results. The technical advantages of ALIF have to be balanced with the additional morbidity and operation time owed to the additional approach. ALIF might be associated with a lower incidence of adjacent level disease compared with TLIF.

Object Previous reports on the accuracy of manual palpation for thoracic pedicle screw placement have been restricted to cadaveric studies. Authors of the present novel study assessed the accuracy of manual palpation for the detection of medial and lateral pedicle breaches during thoracic spine surgery in living adult humans. Methods Pedicle tracks were created freehand and manually palpated using a ball-tipped probe. Postoperative CT scans of all implanted thoracic and L-1 screws were evaluated with respect to screw position and the pedicle wall. Results Five hundred twenty-five pedicle track/screw placements were compared. There were 21 pedicles with medial breaches measuring ≥ 2 mm. The surgeon correctly identified only 4 of these pedicle tracks as having a medial breach. The surgeon correctly identified 17 of 128 pedicles with a significant (≥ 2 mm) lateral breach. One hundred two screw placements had no measurable breach in any direction (medial, lateral, or foraminal). The surgeon correctly identified 98% of these ideally placed screws. Conclusions In this real-time study of thoracic pedicle screw placement, the accuracy of manual palpation for detecting medial or lateral breaches that were ≥ 2 mm was disturbingly low. These findings are consistent with those in recent cadaveric evaluations of palpation accuracy and point to the critical need for more reliable alternative methods to assess pedicle integrity during the placement of thoracic pedicle screws for spine instrumentation surgery.