Objective:

Pedicle screw (PS) fixation for spine arthrodesis is a useful procedure for the treatment of spinal disorders. However, instrument failure often occurs, and PS loosening is the initial step of a range of complications. In order to prevent PS loosening, the author offers to open a hole in the middle of spinous process of vertebra and pass a cross link which connects rods with each other through that hole. The paper provides explanation of an operating technique, clinical impressions in the early and late postoperative period and any technical problems that may occur. The aim of this study is description of a new technique to prevent PS loosening and demonstration of application results.

Materials and Methods:

The technique we propose has been applied for two years to 24 patients with idiopathic scoliosis, 4 patients with vertebral fracture and 4 patients with lumbar stenosis, all aged between 13 and 65.

Results:

The modification can be easily conducted and takes no more than 2- 5 minutes. None of the patients had any unusual or pronounced pain in the shaft zone in early postoperative period and no movement restriction or any other clinical symptoms can be observed. None of the patients have had loosening or displacements of screws for two years.

Conclusion:

The technique for support of spinous processes is efficient and easy which prevents PS loosening and creates no further complications. It does not thoroughly modify the principles of fixation and require any special instruments, therefore it can widely be used.

Keywords: implant failure, loosening, pedicle screw fixation, pedicle screw loosening, spine surgery