Internal fixation (pedicle screw fixation) for fusions of the lumbar spine.

Abstract

Literature review. To illustrate the indications and potential complications of pedicle screw application in the lumbar spine. Except for the treatment of severe spondylolisthesis (grades 3 and 4) at L5-S1, using autogenous bone graft and with device removal often fusion is obtained. Pedicle screw devices labeled for stabilizing the lumbar spine or correcting deformities in fusion procedures are currently considered Class III medical devices by the Food and Drug Administration, that is, investigational or experimental forms of spinal fixation. Recent clinical studies have attested to their usefulness and safety by qualified surgeons for selected surgical indications. Literature synthesis. Segmental fixation increases the fusion rate and clinical success of indicated patients undergoing the procedure in lumbar spine operations, as it does in the treatment of fusion of long bone injuries, scoliosis, and other comparable surgeries. With this technology, surgeons can effectively reduce the pseudarthrosis rate, improve patient satisfaction and results of functional studies, and ultimately reduce the long-term cost to society as a result of effective initial posterior lumbar spine surgery.