A novel computer-assisted technique for pedicle screw insertion.

Background: Commercially available systems for computer-assisted pedicle screw placement are prohibitively expensive, even in advanced countries. The advantage of the great accuracy of computer-assisted systems for pedicle screw insertion makes them highly desirable and essential for current spinal surgeries.

Methods: We have tried to develop a new software for pedicle screw placement, based on paired point matching.

Results: The newly developed software is much less expensive and is an excellent educational tool. Its accuracy has been established by a cadaveric study, described in this paper.

Conclusions: The cadaveric study supports the view that computer-assisted pedicle screw fixation using the newly developed software is superior to the conventional fluoroscopic method, especially with regard to the thoracic spine, where a higher degree of accuracy is needed. Further clinical studies are planned and the software needs further refinement for complex clinical situations.