Intraoperative computerized tomography for improved accuracy of spinal navigation in pedicle screw placement of the thoracic spine.

We report on our experiences with the use of intraoperative CT imaging in surgery of the thoracic spine and on our results of pedicle screw insertion using spinal navigation and implantable fiducial markers. For our operations we used the Tomoscan M-EG and the EasyGuideSpine (Philips Medical Systems). During the operation the patient was positioned on the mobile CT table. Following dorsal preparation, small titanium screws were implanted in the vertebrae so as to serve as fiducial markers. Image data were obtained by performing a spiral CT scan. Ventilation was suspended for the duration of the CT scan. Screw insertion as well as vertebral biopsies were performed using spinal navigation. Intraoperative CT scans were obtained to confirm the position of the implants and to assess the amount of bony decompression as well as the realignment. Since 1998, 112 patients with various disorders of the thoracic spine have been operated on using the described technique. 365 screws were inserted in the area of T1 to T12. There were 23 (6.3%) misplacements of pedicle screws. In 42 cases (11.5%) we observed a minimal lateral perforation (<2 mm) of the pedicle wall. No neurological, cardiovascular, or pulmonary injury occurred. Intraoperative CT imaging influenced surgical decisions as well as the final result of surgery. Despite the use of intraoperative imaging and accurate spinal navigation, pedicle screw placement in the thoracic spine remains extremely challenging.