Percutaneous Pedicle Screw Fixation
Percutaneous spinal stabilization is a revolutionary, minimally invasive technique designed to treat spinal instability resulting from fractures, degenerative conditions, or tumors. This state-of-the-art procedure utilizes advanced imaging guidance and specialized instruments to place stabilizing screws and rods through small, keyhole incisions. By avoiding the large incisions and extensive muscle dissection of traditional open surgery, this approach significantly reduces blood loss, minimizes post-operative pain, and shortens hospital stays. Our expert surgeons leverage this technology to provide immediate structural support to the spine, allowing for a much faster recovery and return to daily activities for patients with debilitating spinal conditions.
Under general anesthesia, the patient is positioned face-down. Instead of a large incision, the surgeon makes several small cuts and uses specialized tools to gently spread the back muscles. Real-time imaging, like fluoroscopy or computer navigation, provides a precise 3D view to guide this muscle-sparing technique with millimeter-perfect accuracy.
Guided by this advanced imaging, the surgeon accurately places hollow pedicle screws over thin guidewires into the vertebrae. A stabilizing rod is then tunneled under the skin to connect the screws, and the entire construct is locked to create an immediate internal brace. The small incisions are then closed with a few stitches, completing the stabilization.
The primary goal of this procedure is to restore stability without the extensive trauma of open surgery. By minimizing tissue damage, patients typically experience less post-operative pain and a faster recovery. The high accuracy of the navigated placement ensures a robust and lasting fixation. This provides excellent long-term outcomes for conditions like spinal fractures or instability. The result is a powerful stabilization achieved with a minimal footprint on the patient's body.
Recovery following percutaneous spinal stabilization is markedly accelerated compared to traditional open fusion. Patients often experience less pain and are encouraged to walk within hours of the surgery. The hospital stay is typically reduced to just a few days. While a brace may sometimes be recommended for a short period, a structured physical therapy program is initiated to help patients safely regain core strength, flexibility, and function. This cutting-edge procedure offers excellent long-term stability and pain relief, enabling patients to reclaim their quality of life with minimal surgical impact.