What is Pedicle Screw Fixation?
When a lumbar fusion is required due to degenerative spinal diseases, pedicle screw fixation is used to internally immobilize the targeted spinal segments and thereby enhance the fusion rate. Rigid fixation is achieved by the placement of longitudinal connectors (rods) that interconnect the pedicle screw heads. Pedicle screw fixation has historically been the gold standard for providing stabilization to the lumbar motion segment while the fusion matures. As an alternative to standard open surgery, percutaneous placement of pedicle screws diminishes injury to adjacent structures while accomplishing the same goal of immobilizing the spinal segments. Am I a Candidate for Pedicle Screw Fixation? If you suffer from Degenerative Disc Disease in the lumbar spine, and have failed at least six months of conservative treatment without adequate results, you may be a candidate for spinal fusion. Your doctor can help you determine if you are a candidate for pedicle screw fixation. What have the Res
