Multiple parallel skin markers for minimal incision lumbar disc surgery; a technical note

Kai Jow Tsai, Shih Hao Chen, Po Quang Chen*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalJournal Article peer-review

8 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background: Spinal surgery depends on accurate localization to prevent incorrect surgical approaches. The trend towards minimally invasive surgery that minimizes surgical exposure and reduces postoperative pain increasingly requires surgeons to accurately determine the operative level before an incision is made. Preoperative localization with a C-arm image intensifier is popular, but the exposure of both patients and theatre staff to radiation is a disadvantage, as well as being time-consuming. Methods: We describe a simple surgical tool developed to help localize exact spinal levels in conjunction with a simple AP X-ray film immediately before surgery. Multiple parallel skin markers were made using a circular oven rack comprising multiple 1.5 cm spaced parallel wires attached to a circular outside rim. The longest line was placed on the line of the postero-superior iliac spine (PSIS) over the junction of the L5-S1 region. Results and conclusions: Based on the film taken, the incision can be accurately made at the intended level. The incision wound can be minimized to 3.0 cm even when using conventional disc surgery instruments.

Original languageEnglish
Article number8
Pages (from-to)1-4
Number of pages4
JournalBMC Musculoskeletal Disorders
Volume5
DOIs
StatePublished - 16 03 2004
Externally publishedYes

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Multiple parallel skin markers for minimal incision lumbar disc surgery; a technical note'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this