Department: Orthopedic Spine Department
Patient: Female, age: 15Y
Dr. Roy Gigi
Services: Segmentation, surgery planning, anatomy model, PSI.
Hemivertebra is a type of vertebral anomaly that results from a lack of formation of one half of a vertebral body. It is a common cause of congenital scoliosis where the spine is curved sideways.
The effects of hemivertebrae on spinal alignment are severe in most cases and can cause the patient to be asymmetrical – with one shoulder above the other, or one hip not symmetrical with the other. Pedicle screws are commonly used in the surgery.
This is a delicate procedure given the location. Usually, it is performed on children when the bones are still shaping so as to improve the child’s long term outlook.
The effects of hemivertebrae on spinal alignment are severe in most cases and can cause the patient to be asymmetrical – with one shoulder above the other, or one hip not symmetrical with the other. Pedicle screws are commonly used in the surgery.
This is a delicate procedure given the location. Usually, it is performed on children when the bones are still shaping so as to improve the child’s long term outlook.
Using our 3D imaging platform, the physician is able to view the vertebrae transparently, simplifying the surgery plan. We create a virtual 3D model of the spine from a CT. The surgeons are able to select appropriately sized screws so that they do not penetrate the vertebrae volume and or touch the veins adjacent to the vertebrae. We also 3D print anatomical model and patient-specific jigs to guide the surgeons on the trajectory and the depth at which the screws need to be inserted.
Once the correct sized screws are selected, matching K-wires are used to affix the pre-sterilized jig to the desired location on the patient’s spinal segment. Screws are inserted through the pedicle and into the pre determined spot on the vertebral body.
Using jigs gives the surgeon the confidence to perform the procedure accurately, decreases operation time and reduces use of anesthesia- which is critical in the pediatric population.
