Percutaneous posterior lumbar interbody fusion using optical topographic navigation: Operative technique

Abstract

Despite the availability of navigation systems in spine surgery for over two decades, uptake into routine clinical practice has been limited in large part due to disruption of workflow with associated increased operative time. Optical topographical navigation for spine surgery permits safe and accurate placement of pedicle screws without any exposure to intraoperative ionizing radiation and may in fact improve workflow owing to a rapid registration time. Here we describe a novel application of 7D navigation system in a minimally invasive approach for posterior lumbar inter-body fusion (PLIF) with percutaneous screw placement.To our knowledge, this is the first publishable paper discussing the application of optical topographic navigation in minimally invasive PLIF. In our experience this technique was efficient, reliable and requires systematic study to evaluate long-term outcomes and potential benefits and pitfalls.

Keywords

• 7D Surgical System
• Navigation
• Spine fusion
• Optical topographic imaging