BACKGROUND:  Traditional complex spinal surgery usually requires the use of general anesthesia and is extremely invasive. Even for elective cases, the lumbar paraspinal muscle is often destroyed, requiring a lengthy recovery time and high volume blood loss for patients. The current state-of-the-art spinal instrumentation can be achieved in a minimally invasive manner; however, this method still requires multiple incisions and paraspinal muscle destruction.

INNOVATION:  Researchers at UCLA have identified a conceptual percutaneous device that offers a huge advantage over existing spinal instrumentation by using state-of-the-art fluoroscopy as a guide. The device consists of a fluoroscopically guided percuaneous pedicle screw system, as well as a fluoroscopically guided tunnel device, which is paired with a rod-delivery mechanism. This does not require the instrument to need surgical visualization for proper placement within the spinal column. As well, there is no muscle destruction, small skin puncture sites, and minimal blood loss. The percutaneous nature of this device will obviate the need for large incisions and minimize recovery time and hospital length of stay.

POTENTIAL APPLICATIONS 

• Can be coupled with state-of-the-art fluoroscopy techniques to achieve complex spinal instrumentation and fusion percutaneously

ADVANTAGES

• Minimally invasive
• No muscle destruction
• Small skin puncture sites
• Accurate percutaneous placement of complex spinal instrumentation

DEVELOPMENT-TO-DATE:  This is a conceptual device with plans for animal studies and human trials.

Reference: UCLA Case No. 2008-682