Three-Dimensional Frameless Stereotactic-Guided Pedicle Screw Fixation of the Spine: Early Experiences in King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital
Chopeow Taecholarn MD*, Peerapong Montriwiwatchai MD*, Thana Tongkon MD*, Surachai Khaoroptham MD*
Affiliation : * Division of Neurological Surgery, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University
Objectives : To study the accuracy and safety of pedicle screw insertion by three-dimensional frameless stereo-
tactic-guided technique.
Materials and Methods : Twelve patients underwent spinal surgery using three- dimensional frameless stereo-
tactic-guided technique at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital (KCMH) during June - December 2004.
In all patients, post-operative CT scan of the operated spinal segments were obtained and evaluated for the
position of each screw placed. Medical records were reviewed and all patients were interviewed by telephone
to assess clinical outcomes and complications
Results : 51 pedicle screws were inserted in 12 patients. Postoperative CT scan of the instrumented spine
revealed that 50 screws were considered grade I screw while one screw was considered grade II. No patient
suffered direct vascular or neurological injury.
Conclusion : Three-dimensional frameless stereotactic-guided technique provides additional safety to spinal
instrumentation
Keywords : Spinal surgery, Spinal instrumentation, Sterotactic guided
