Validation of Surgeon Perception of Navigated Pedicle Screw Position: A Cadaveric Study

Abstract

A surgeon's ability to detect pedicle wall violations intra-operatively is crucial for optimal pedicle screw placement. Postoperative CT scans are traditionally used as the gold standard to assess pedicle screw position. However, if there are symptoms attributable to malpositioned screws, a second procedure becomes necessary. The use of intra-operative navigation theoretically increases the likelihood of optimal screw placement, and in the event of a perceived screw malposition, revision of the screw can be done in the same sitting.