Minimally Invasive System for Pedicle Screw Placement

This helps to streamline the fusion procedure and reduce the number of operative steps for the surgeon. A novel compression and distraction system, a robust rod reduction system, and a proprietary noncannulated screw design with a K-wire guided tip allow for accurate screw placement and enhanced screw strength. Potential benefits of the Paramount pedicle-screw system include lessened operative time, reduced blood loss, less issue trauma and scarring, less postoperative pain, and a shorter hospital stay. The Paramount Pedicle Screw System is a product of Integra LifeSciences (Plainsboro, NJ, USA).

"The Paramount system offers my patients a safe, effective minimally invasive procedure, with potentially less blood loss and less muscle trauma to the posterior musculature,” said Andrew Parkinson, M.D., of Orthopedic Associates (Oklahoma City, OK, USA) who performed the first surgery in the United States using the Paramount system.

Pedicle screws provide a means of gripping a spinal segment as an adjunct to spinal fusion surgery; the screws themselves do not fixate the spinal segment, but act as firm anchor points for stabilization. The screws are usually placed at two or three consecutive spine segments and then a short rod is used to connect the screws. This construct prevents motion at the segments that are being fused; when the process is completed, the screws and rods are no longer needed for stability and may be safely removed with a subsequent back surgery. However, most surgeons do not recommend removal unless the pedicle screws cause discomfort for the patient.

Related Links:
Integra LifeSciences
Orthopedic Associates