To CT scan or Not to CT scan?
Location
LSUHSC Center for Advanced Learning and Simulation
Document Type
Presentation
Start Date
22-6-2024 8:45 AM
End Date
22-6-2024 9:05 AM
Publication Date
June 2024
Description
Introduction: Pedicle screws are safe implants used for various spinal deformities in the pediatric population. Several studies have evaluated variations in pedicle anatomy, parameters to detect pedicle breach, and the need for postoperative computerized tomography (CT) scan to confirm screw placement. Some have opined that if the screws at one level cross on a posterior-anterior (PA) radiograph, there must be a medial pedicle breach.
Methods: The purpose of this report is to review an example of spine fusion and instrumentation in a male patient with Scheuermann’s Kyphosis.
Results: Relatively long pedicle screws were used, and postoperative radiographs showed screws crossing the midline at several levels. We ordered a CT scan that demonstrated several screw tips crossing midline without breaching the medial cortex.
Conclusion: Long pedicle screws are not necessarily mal-positioned if they cross the midline, especially if a far-lateral entry site has been used.
Recommended Citation
Williams, Jestin, "To CT scan or Not to CT scan?" (2024). Dept. of Orthopaedics: Robert D. D’Ambrosia Lectureship & Research Day. 4.
https://digitalscholar.lsuhsc.edu/ortho_rd/2024/presentation1/4
To CT scan or Not to CT scan?
LSUHSC Center for Advanced Learning and Simulation
Introduction: Pedicle screws are safe implants used for various spinal deformities in the pediatric population. Several studies have evaluated variations in pedicle anatomy, parameters to detect pedicle breach, and the need for postoperative computerized tomography (CT) scan to confirm screw placement. Some have opined that if the screws at one level cross on a posterior-anterior (PA) radiograph, there must be a medial pedicle breach.
Methods: The purpose of this report is to review an example of spine fusion and instrumentation in a male patient with Scheuermann’s Kyphosis.
Results: Relatively long pedicle screws were used, and postoperative radiographs showed screws crossing the midline at several levels. We ordered a CT scan that demonstrated several screw tips crossing midline without breaching the medial cortex.
Conclusion: Long pedicle screws are not necessarily mal-positioned if they cross the midline, especially if a far-lateral entry site has been used.