Novel Osteobiologics and Biomaterials in the Treatment of Spinal Disorders.

Spinal osteobiologics have evolved substantially in this century after the development of many product categories such as growth factors, allograft, and stem cells. The indications for the use of novel biologics within spine surgery are rapidly expanding as the mechanism of each is elucidated. While the knowledge base of bone morphogenetic protein increases with each subsequent year, the application of new nanotechnology and cell-based strategies are being reported.

Minimally invasive cervical spine foraminotomy and lateral mass screw placement.

Study Design: This technique article describes accomplishing multilevel posterior cervical decompression and lateral mass screw placement through a tubular retraction system.

Objective: Multilevel foraminotomy and instrumented fusion using lateral mass screw fixation can be achieved through a minimally invasive technique using specialized retractors and intraoperative fluoroscopic imaging.

Summary Of Background Data: Minimally invasive surgical techniques have been adapted to the cervical spine with good results.