Novel use of percutaneous cervical pedicle inlet screws for supplemental posterior fixation after anterior cervical deformity correction.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Correction of cervical deformity can be achieved using anterior cervical fixation and fusion techniques. However, supplemental posterior fixation is a critical component for ensuring biomechanical longevity and favorable patient outcomes. We present a novel percutaneous technique for posterior cervical fixation in patients where cervical pedicle (CP) screws may not be feasible and midline muscle dissection is not needed. METHODS: Three patients presented to our hospital with cervical pathology amendable to circumferential cervical fusion. After adequate deformity correction was performed through an anterior cervical decompression and fusion, staged posterior supplemental fixation was achieved using percutaneous CP inlet (CPI) screws using a percutaneous muscle-sparing approach. RESULTS: All three patients underwent CPI screw placement without postoperative neurovascular complications. Postoperative radiographic follow-up showed the desired, proper screw placement, with continued maintained cervical alignment. CONCLUSIONS: CPI screw placement may be alternative hybrid screw that achieves a advantageous safety profile while also avoiding an open midline exposure.