Researchers assessed the accuracy and safety of using intraoperative cone-beam CT and an image-guided navigation system during minimally invasive lateral lumbar interbody fusion, according to a study published in the Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine.
The study included 31 patients. Researchers compared the planned trajectory of the image-guided navigation system with the post-cage placement intraoperative fluoroscopy. They determined accuracy via post-surgery CT and/or radiography.
Here are four insights:
1. The study found accurate cage placement using an image-guided navigation system in every case.
2. The researchers found no cases involving misguidance by the image-guided navigation system.
3. There was an approach-based complication in one case. Additionally, eight patients experienced transient, mild thigh paresthesias or weakness.
4. The researchers concluded surgeons may safely and accurately perform LLIF with an image-guided navigation system and intraoperative cone-beam CT.