Intra-operative localisation of spinal level using pre-operative CT-guided placement of a flexible hook-wire marker

Br J Neurosurg. 2011 Dec;25(6):778-9. doi: 10.3109/02688697.2011.584987. Epub 2011 Jun 27.

Abstract

Confident intra-operative localisation of thoracic spinal pathology remains challenging. Several strategies are routinely employed, including intra-operative fluoroscopy and pre-operative image-guided skin marking. These techniques are limited both by potential inaccuracy and inconvenience. Here we present a novel, efficient and accurate technique for intra-operative localisation of thoracic spinal pathology using pre-operative CT-guided placement of a flexible hook-wire marker.

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Intervertebral Disc Displacement / diagnostic imaging
  • Intervertebral Disc Displacement / surgery
  • Intraoperative Care / methods
  • Neoplasms, Nerve Tissue / diagnostic imaging
  • Neoplasms, Nerve Tissue / surgery
  • Preoperative Care / methods*
  • Spinal Cord Neoplasms / surgery
  • Surgery, Computer-Assisted / methods*
  • Thoracic Vertebrae / diagnostic imaging*
  • Thoracic Vertebrae / surgery
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed*