We would like to acknowledge UCSF Medical Center and the Department of Neurosurgery for allowing us to pursue this endeavor.

All procedures and research activities were performed with institutional review board approval (CHR #17-21909).
1. Pre-operative Preparation
<ol>
	<li>Induce general anesthesia in the patient, and position the patient prone on the Jackson table with chest bolster and hip pads.</li>
	<li>Prep and drape the patient&#39;s back in the usual sterile fashion.</li>
</ol>
2. Surgical Procedure
<ol>
	<li>Make a small stab incision using a #15-blade over the PSIS contralatera...

<ol>
	<li>Mobbs, R. J., Phan, K., Malham, G., Seex, K., Rao, P. J. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Lumbar+interbody+fusion:+techniques,+indications+and+comparison+of+interbody+fusion+options+including+PLIF,+TLIF,+MI-TLIF,+OLIF/ATP,+LLIF+and+ALIF.">Lumbar interbody fusion: techniques, indications and comparison of interbody fusion options including PLIF, TLIF, MI-TLIF, OLIF/ATP, LLIF and ALIF.</a> J Spine Surg. 1 (1), 2-18 (2015).</li><li>Foley, K. T., Holly, L. T., Schwender, J. D. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Minimally+invasive+lumbar+fusion.">Minimally invasive lumbar fusion.</a> Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 28, S26-S35 (2003).</li><li>Foley, K. T., Lefkowitz, M. A. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Advances+in+minimally+invasive+spine+surgery.">Advances in minimally invasive spine surgery.</a> Clin Neurosurg. 49, 499-517 (2002).</li><li>Schwender, J. D., Holly, L. T., Rouben, D. P., Foley, K. T. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Minimally+invasive+transforaminal+lumbar+interbody+fusion+(TLIF):+technical+feasibility+and+initial+results.">Minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF): technical feasibility and initial results.</a> J Spinal Disord Tech. 18 Suppl, S1-S6 (2005).</li><li>Lee, K. H., Yue, W. M., Yeo, W., Soeharno, H., Tan, S. B. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Clinical+and+radiological+outcomes+of+open+versus+minimally+invasive+transforaminal+lumbar+interbody+fusion.">Clinical and radiological outcomes of open versus minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion.</a> Eur Spine J. 21 (11), 2265-2270 (2012).</li><li>Peng, C. W., Yue, W. M., Poh, S. Y., Yeo, W., Tan, S. B. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Clinical+and+radiological+outcomes+of+minimally+invasive+versus+open+transforaminal+lumbar+interbody+fusion.">Clinical and radiological outcomes of minimally invasive versus open transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion.</a> Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 34 (13), 1385-1389 (2009).</li><li>Schizas, C., Tzinieris, N., Tsiridis, E., Kosmopoulos, V. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Minimally+invasive+versus+open+transforaminal+lumbar+interbody+fusion:+evaluating+initial+experience.">Minimally invasive versus open transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion: evaluating initial experience.</a> Int Orthop. 33 (6), 1683-1688 (2009).</li><li>Seng, C., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Five-year+outcomes+of+minimally+invasive+versus+open+transforaminal+lumbar+interbody+fusion:+a+matched-pair+comparison+study.">Five-year outcomes of minimally invasive versus open transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion: a matched-pair comparison study.</a> Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 38 (23), 2049-2055 (2013).</li><li>Shunwu, F., Xing, Z., Fengdong, Z., Xiangqian, F. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Minimally+invasive+transforaminal+lumbar+interbody+fusion+for+the+treatment+of+degenerative+lumbar+diseases.">Minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion for the treatment of degenerative lumbar diseases.</a> Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 35 (17), 1615-1620 (2010).</li><li>Singh, K., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=A+perioperative+cost+analysis+comparing+single-level+minimally+invasive+and+open+transforaminal+lumbar+interbody+fusion).">A perioperative cost analysis comparing single-level minimally invasive and open transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion).</a> Spine J. 14 (8), 1694-1701 (2014).</li><li>Wong, A. P., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Minimally+invasive+transforaminal+lumbar+interbody+fusion+(MI-TLIF):+surgical+technique,+long-term+4-year+prospective+outcomes,+and+complications+compared+with+an+open+TLIF+cohort.">Minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MI-TLIF): surgical technique, long-term 4-year prospective outcomes, and complications compared with an open TLIF cohort.</a> Neurosurg Clin N Am. 25 (2), 279-304 (2014).</li><li>Clark, J. C., Jasmer, G., Marciano, F. F., Tumialan, L. M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Minimally+invasive+transforaminal+lumbar+interbody+fusions+and+fluoroscopy:+a+low-dose+protocol+to+minimize+ionizing+radiation.">Minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusions and fluoroscopy: a low-dose protocol to minimize ionizing radiation.</a> Neurosurg Focus. 35 (2), E8 (2013).</li><li>Ringel, F., Villard, J., Ryang, Y. M., Meyer, B. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Navigation,+robotics,+and+intraoperative+imaging+in+spinal+surgery.">Navigation, robotics, and intraoperative imaging in spinal surgery.</a> Adv Tech Stand Neurosurg. 41, 3-22 (2014).</li><li>Overley, S. C., Cho, S. K., Mehta, A. I., Arnold, P. M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Navigation+and+Robotics+in+Spinal+Surgery:+Where+Are+We+Now.">Navigation and Robotics in Spinal Surgery: Where Are We Now.</a> Neurosurgery. 80, S86-S99 (2017).</li><li>Abdullah, K. G., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Radiation+exposure+to+the+spine+surgeon+in+lumbar+and+thoracolumbar+fusions+with+the+use+of+an+intraoperative+computed+tomographic+3-dimensional+imaging+system.">Radiation exposure to the spine surgeon in lumbar and thoracolumbar fusions with the use of an intraoperative computed tomographic 3-dimensional imaging system.</a> Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 37 (17), E1074-E1078 (2012).</li><li>Gelalis, I. D., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Accuracy+of+pedicle+screw+placement:+a+systematic+review+of+prospective+in+vivo+studies+comparing+free+hand,+fluoroscopy+guidance+and+navigation+techniques.">Accuracy of pedicle screw placement: a systematic review of prospective in vivo studies comparing free hand, fluoroscopy guidance and navigation techniques.</a> Eur Spine J. 21 (2), 247-255 (2012).</li><li>Nottmeier, E. W., Bowman, C., Nelson, K. L. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Surgeon+radiation+exposure+in+cone+beam+computed+tomography-based,+image-guided+spinal+surgery.">Surgeon radiation exposure in cone beam computed tomography-based, image-guided spinal surgery.</a> Int J Med Robot. 8 (2), 196-200 (2012).</li><li>Park, P., Foley, K. T., Cowan, J. A., Marca, F. L. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Minimally+invasive+pedicle+screw+fixation+utilizing+O-arm+fluoroscopy+with+computer-assisted+navigation:+Feasibility,+technique,+and+preliminary+results.">Minimally invasive pedicle screw fixation utilizing O-arm fluoroscopy with computer-assisted navigation: Feasibility, technique, and preliminary results.</a> Surg Neurol Int. 1, 44 (2010).</li><li>Van de Kelft, E., Costa, F., Vander Planken, D., Schils, F. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=A+prospective+multicenter+registry+on+the+accuracy+of+pedicle+screw+placement+in+the+thoracic,+lumbar,+and+sacral+levels+with+the+use+of+the+O-arm+imaging+system+and+StealthStation+Navigation.">A prospective multicenter registry on the accuracy of pedicle screw placement in the thoracic, lumbar, and sacral levels with the use of the O-arm imaging system and StealthStation Navigation.</a> Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 37 (25), E1580-E1587 (2012).</li><li>Kim, T. T., Johnson, J. P., Pashman, R., Drazin, D. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Minimally+Invasive+Spinal+Surgery+with+Intraoperative+Image-Guided+Navigation.">Minimally Invasive Spinal Surgery with Intraoperative Image-Guided Navigation.</a> Biomed Res Int. 2016, 5716235 (2016).</li><li>Kim, M. C., Chung, H. T., Cho, J. L., Kim, D. J., Chung, N. S. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Subsidence+of+polyetheretherketone+cage+after+minimally+invasive+transforaminal+lumbar+interbody+fusion.">Subsidence of polyetheretherketone cage after minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion.</a> J Spinal Disord Tech. 26 (2), 87-92 (2013).</li><li>Kim, C. W., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Minimally+Invasive+Transforaminal+Lumbar+Interbody+Fusion+Using+Expandable+Technology:+A+Clinical+and+Radiographic+Analysis+of+50+Patients.">Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion Using Expandable Technology: A Clinical and Radiographic Analysis of 50 Patients.</a> World Neurosurg. 90, 228-235 (2016).</li><li>Malham, G. M., Parker, R. M., Blecher, C. M., Seex, K. A. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Assessment+and+classification+of+subsidence+after+lateral+interbody+fusion+using+serial+computed+tomography.">Assessment and classification of subsidence after lateral interbody fusion using serial computed tomography.</a> J Neurosurg Spine. , 1-9 (2015).</li><li>Safaee, M. M., Oh, T., Pekmezci, M., Clark, A. J. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Radiation+exposure+with+hybrid+image-guidance-based+minimally+invasive+transforaminal+lumbar+interbody+fusion.">Radiation exposure with hybrid image-guidance-based minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion.</a> J Clin Neurosci. , (2017).</li><li>Yu, E., Khan, S. N. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Does+less+invasive+spine+surgery+result+in+increased+radiation+exposure?+A+systematic+review.">Does less invasive spine surgery result in increased radiation exposure? A systematic review.</a> Clin Orthop Relat Res. 472 (6), 1738-1748 (2014).</li><li>Villard, J., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Radiation+exposure+to+the+surgeon+and+the+patient+during+posterior+lumbar+spinal+instrumentation:+a+prospective+randomized+comparison+of+navigated+versus+non-navigated+freehand+techniques.">Radiation exposure to the surgeon and the patient during posterior lumbar spinal instrumentation: a prospective randomized comparison of navigated versus non-navigated freehand techniques.</a> Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 39 (13), 1004-1009 (2014).</li><li>Tabaraee, E., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Intraoperative+cone+beam-computed+tomography+with+navigation+(O-ARM)+versus+conventional+fluoroscopy+(C-ARM):+a+cadaveric+study+comparing+accuracy,+efficiency,+and+safety+for+spinal+instrumentation.">Intraoperative cone beam-computed tomography with navigation (O-ARM) versus conventional fluoroscopy (C-ARM): a cadaveric study comparing accuracy, efficiency, and safety for spinal instrumentation.</a> Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 38 (22), 1953-1958 (2013).</li><li>Theologis, A. A., Burch, S., Pekmezci, M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Placement+of+iliosacral+screws+using+3D+image-guided+(O-Arm)+technology+and+Stealth+Navigation:+comparison+with+traditional+fluoroscopy.">Placement of iliosacral screws using 3D image-guided (O-Arm) technology and Stealth Navigation: comparison with traditional fluoroscopy.</a> Bone Joint J. 98-B. 98-B (5), 696-702 (2016).</li><li>Mendelsohn, D., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Patient+and+surgeon+radiation+exposure+during+spinal+instrumentation+using+intraoperative+computed+tomography-based+navigation.">Patient and surgeon radiation exposure during spinal instrumentation using intraoperative computed tomography-based navigation.</a> Spine J. 16 (3), 343-354 (2016).</li><li>Shin, B. J., Njoku, I. U., Tsiouris, A. J., Hartl, R. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Navigated+guide+tube+for+the+placement+of+mini-open+pedicle+screws+using+stereotactic+3D+navigation+without+the+use+of+K-wires:+technical+note.">Navigated guide tube for the placement of mini-open pedicle screws using stereotactic 3D navigation without the use of K-wires: technical note.</a> J Neurosurg Spine. 18 (2), 178-183 (2013).</li><li>Lian, X., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Total+3D+Airo(R)+Navigation+for+Minimally+Invasive+Transforaminal+Lumbar+Interbody+Fusion.">Total 3D Airo(R) Navigation for Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion.</a> Biomed Res Int. 2016, 5027340 (2016).</li><li>Navarro-Ramirez, R., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Total+Navigation+in+Spine+Surgery;+A+Concise+Guide+to+Eliminate+Fluoroscopy+Using+a+Portable+Intraoperative+Computed+Tomography+3-Dimensional+Navigation+System.">Total Navigation in Spine Surgery; A Concise Guide to Eliminate Fluoroscopy Using a Portable Intraoperative Computed Tomography 3-Dimensional Navigation System.</a> World Neurosurg. 100, 325-335 (2017).</li></ol>

There are several critical steps to the procedure described. The first critical step is the process of registration. The reference arc must be placed in solid bone and should be oriented appropriately to avoid interfering with the S1 pedicle screw placement if needed. The second critical step is maintaining accuracy of the navigation after an intraoperative CT scan is performed, which can be done by identifying normal anatomic structures and confirming the correct positioning. The accuracy should be periodically verified...

The TLIF is one of several options available when considering interbody fusion for degenerative disc disease and spondylolisthesis. The TLIF technique was initially developed in response to complications associated with the more traditional posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) approach. More specifically, the TLIF minimized retraction of neural elements, thereby reducing the risk of nerve root injury as well as the risk of dural tears, which can lead to persistent cerebrospinal fluid leak. As a unilateral approach, the TLIF technique also affords better preservation of the normal anatomy of the posterior elements1. The TLIF can be performed either open (O-TLIF) or minimally invasive (MIS-TLIF), and MIS-TLIF has proven to be a versatile and popular treatment for lumbar degenerative disease and spondylolisthesis2,3,4. Compared to the O-TLIF, the MIS-TLIF has been associated with decreased blood loss, shorter hospital stay, and less narcotic use; patient-reported and radiographic outcome measures are also similar between open and MIS approaches, thus suggesting the MIS-TLIF is an equally effective but potentially less morbid procedure5,6,7,8,9,10,11.
However, a frequent limitation of the traditional MIS technique is the heavy reliance on fluoroscopy which exposes the patient, surgeon, and operating room staff to non-trivial radiation doses and fluoroscopy time ranging from 46-147 s12. More recently, however, the use of intraoperative CT-guided navigation has been studied, with several different systems available and described in the literature including the O-arm/STEALTH, Airo Mobile, and Stryker Spinal Navigation Systems.13,14 This type of navigated technique has been shown to result in accurate pedicle screw placement while also minimizing the radiation risk to the surgeon15,16,17,18,19. In this article, we present a novel technique for MIS-TLIF that utilizes image-guidance-based pedicle screw placement followed by cage and rod placement with traditional fluoroscopy. This strategy has the potential to increase the speed and accuracy of the pedicle screw placement while minimizing the radiation exposure to both the patient and operating room staff.

<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width:899px;" width="899">
	<tbody>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:284px;">O-arm intraoperative CT</td>
			<td style="width:288px;">Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN</td>
			<td style="width:136px;"></td>
			<td style="width:191px;"></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:284px;">Stealth Navigation System</td>
			<td style="width:288px;">Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN</td>
			<td style="width:136px;"></td>
			<td style="width:191px;"></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:284px;">Jamshidi Needles</td>
			<td style="width:288px;"></td>
			<td style="width:136px;"></td>
			<td>for bone marrow biopsy</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;">Cefazolin&#160;</td>
			<td style="width:288px;"></td>
			<td style="width:136px;"></td>
			<td>antibiotic.</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:284px;">Vicryl Sutures</td>
			<td style="width:288px;"></td>
			<td style="width:136px;"></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:284px;">Steri-Strips</td>
			<td style="width:288px;"></td>
			<td style="width:136px;"></td>
			<td>for skin closure</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;">telfa dressing</td>
			<td style="width:288px;"></td>
			<td style="width:136px;"></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;">tegaderm</td>
			<td style="width:288px;"></td>
			<td style="width:136px;"></td>
			<td>for dressing</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:284px;">Jackson table</td>
			<td style="width:288px;"></td>
			<td style="width:136px;"></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:284px;">15-blade</td>
			<td style="width:288px;"></td>
			<td style="width:136px;"></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:284px;">High-speed bone drill</td>
			<td style="width:288px;"></td>
			<td style="width:136px;"></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:284px;">Tubular dilator</td>
			<td style="width:288px;"></td>
			<td style="width:136px;"></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:284px;">K-wires</td>
			<td style="width:288px;"></td>
			<td style="width:136px;"></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:284px;">Reduction towers</td>
			<td style="width:288px;"></td>
			<td style="width:136px;"></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:284px;">TLIF retractor</td>
			<td style="width:288px;"></td>
			<td style="width:136px;"></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:284px;">2 or 3 mm Kerrison rongeur</td>
			<td style="width:288px;"></td>
			<td style="width:136px;"></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:284px;">Woodson elevator</td>
			<td style="width:288px;"></td>
			<td style="width:136px;"></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:284px;">Disc shaver and distractor</td>
			<td style="width:288px;"></td>
			<td style="width:136px;"></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:284px;">Fluoroscopy</td>
			<td style="width:288px;"></td>
			<td style="width:136px;"></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:284px;">Allograft cellular bone matrix</td>
			<td style="width:288px;"></td>
			<td style="width:136px;"></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:284px;">Interbody cage</td>
			<td style="width:288px;"></td>
			<td style="width:136px;"></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:284px;">Rod</td>
			<td style="width:288px;"></td>
			<td style="width:136px;"></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:284px;">Soft lumbar brace</td>
			<td style="width:288px;"></td>
			<td style="width:136px;"></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:284px;">X-ray</td>
			<td style="width:288px;"></td>
			<td style="width:136px;"></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:284px;">Patient-controlled analgesia pump</td>
			<td style="width:288px;"></td>
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cone beam intraoperative computed tomography-based image guidance for minimally invasive transforaminal interbody fusion

Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) is commonly used for the treatment of spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, and spondylolisthesis. Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) approaches have been applied to this technique with an associated decrease in estimated blood loss (EBL), length of hospital stay, and infection rates, while preserving outcomes with traditional open surgery. Previous MIS TLIF techniques involve significant fluoroscopy that subjects the patient, surgeon, and operating room staff to non-trivial levels of radiation exposure, particularly for complex multi-level procedures. We present a technique that utilizes an intraoperative computed tomography (CT) scan to aid in placement of pedicle screws, followed by traditional fluoroscopy for confirmation of cage placement. Patients are positioned in the standard fashion and a reference arc is placed in the posterior superior iliac spine (PSIS) followed by intraoperative CT scan. This allows for image-guidance-based placement of pedicle screws through a one-inch skin incision on each side. Unlike traditional MIS-TLIF that requires significant fluoroscopic imaging during this stage, the operation can now be performed without any additional radiation exposure to the patient or operating room staff. After completion of the facetectomy and discectomy, final TLIF cage placement is confirmed with fluoroscopy. This technique has the potential to decrease operative time and minimize total radiation exposure.

Fifty patients underwent surgery with this technique under a single surgeon (AC). The average age was 53 years (range 29-84 years) with 30 women and 20 men. Patients presented with the following pathology: spinal stenosis (n=45), spondylolisthesis (n=29), facet cysts (n=5), degenerative scoliosis (n=3), and cauda equina syndrome (n=1). Symptoms were back and leg pain in 42 cases, back pain alone in 2 cases, and lower extremity radiculopathy in 6 cases. In 10 cases, patients had undergone ...

Watch this Scientific Journal Video about Cone Beam Intraoperative Computed Tomography-based Image Guidance for Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Interbody Fusion at JoVE.com

Cone Beam Intraoperative Computed Tomography-based Image Guidance for Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Interbody Fusion

The purpose of this article is to provide image-guidance for minimally invasive transforaminal interbody fusion.

Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) is commonly used for the treatment of spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, and spondylolisthesis. ...

This method can help answer key questions in the neurosurgical field as its main advantage is the utilization of intraoperative navigation and the minimization of required fluoroscopy and associated radiation effects. After inducing general anesthesia, position the patient in the prone position on a Jackson table with a chest bolster and heat pads and prep and drape the patient's back according to standard protocols. Use a number 15 blade to make a small stab incision over the posterior superior iliac spine contralateral to the side of the planned transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion and place a Jamshidi needle through the stab incision into the ilium to harvest the bone marrow aspirate.Drive the navigation reference frame into the posterior superior iliac spine in a trajectory that places the reference arc inferior and medial to the posterior superior iliac spine and cover the wound with the sterile drape with the reference arc exposed. Perform an intraoperative computed tomography scan using the navigation system to plan the pedicle screw trajectories. Then use a high-speed drill equipped with the navigated drill guide and a two to three millimeter bit to cannulate the pedicles and place cannulated pedicle screws with reduction towers over the K-wires on the side opposite the transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion.To determine the trajectory of the dilator along the disc space, use the navigation system to orient the tubular dilators for the placement of additional dilators in the transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion. Confirm the retractor positioning via navigation and use the high-speed drill to perform a laminotomy and facetectomy according to standard protocols under a dissecting microscope taking care that the lateral border of the laminotomy is the medial aspect of the facet joint and that the medial border of the laminotomy is the medial edge of the lamina. Use a Woodson Elevator to dissect the ligamentum flavum from the dura.Once this is achieved, use a two or three millimeter Kerrison rongeur to remove the ligamentum flavum from the bone. If contralateral decompression is required, angle the retractor across the midline and use the rongeur to remove the underside of the contralateral lamina, ligamentum flavum, and hypertrophic facet capsule. Use the navigation again to identify the trajectory along the disc space to facilitate a safe and thorough discectomy and use shavers and distractors to prepare the disc space.After completing the decompression and facetectomy, the thecal sac can be gently retracted medially to visualize the disc space. The trajectory can be confirmed using image guidance. The thecal sac is gently retracted medially and a number 15 blade is used to perform an annulotomy.The discectomy is completed using a combination of pituitary rongeurs, curets, and rasps. Upon completion of the discectomy, use intermittent fluoroscopy to visualize the degree of distraction required during the interbody cage trial placement to ensure preservation of the end plates. Now mix the allograft cellular bone matrix with the harvested autologous bone marrow aspirate and carefully pack the mixture into the disc space.Insert the interbody cage and confirm the cage position via lateral and anteroposterior fluoroscopy. Once the transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion has been completed, place the remaining pedicle screws and carefully drive a pre-bent rod through the screw heads below the dorsal lumbar fascia using periodic fluoroscopy to confirm an adequate rod length has been achieved. Gently compress the rods to induce lordosis before securing the rods with locking set screws.After obtaining a final fluoroscopy, close the thoracodorsal fascia with a zero polyglactin 910 suture and the subcutaneous tissue with a 3-0 polyglactin 910 suture. Then approximate the skin edges with skin closure strips and apply a water tight dressing to the wound. In this representative study, 50 patients presented with a variety of pathologies 10 of whom had undergone a previous surgery at the level of pathology.In half of the patients, a left-sided approach was used and a single level was fused in most of the patients with a significant increase in the operative time observed in patients with multiple level fusions. After watching this video, you should have a good understanding of minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion procedures using image guidance for the placement of the pedicle screws and minimal fluoroscopy for the placement of the interbody cage.

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Research

JoVE Journal

Medicine

6.1K ビュー.  University of California, San Francisco. この方法は、手術中のナビゲーションの利用と必要な蛍光検査と関連する放射線効果の最小化であるとして、神経外科分野の主要な質問に答えることができます。全身麻酔を誘発した後、患者を胸部ボルスターとヒートパッドを備えたジャクソンテーブルの上に置き、標準的なプロトコルに従って患者の背中をドレープする。番号15の刃を使用して、計画された経孔腰椎...

ビデオ: Cone Beam Intraoperative Computed Tomography-based Image Guidance for Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Interbody Fusion

The purpose of this article is to provide image-guidance for minimally invasive transforaminal interbody...

clinical application of microscope-assisted minimally invasive anterior lumbar interbody fusion

Clinical Application of Microscope-Assisted Minimally Invasive Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion

The technique described in this article is well-suited to the Mini-ALIF procedure, allows for excellent exposure and decompression, and facilitates microscope-assisted...

reliability of artificial intelligence-based cone beam computed tomography integration with digital dental images

Author Spotlight: Advancing CBCT and Digital Dental Image Integration with AI-Assisted Digitization

A process of registering cone-beam computed tomography scans and digital dental images has been presented using artificial intelligence (AI) -assisted identification of landmarks and merging. A comparison with surface-based registration shows that AI-based digitization and integration are reliable and...

Reliability of Artificial Intelligence-Based Cone Beam Computed Tomography Integration with Digital Dental Images

three-dimensional cephalometric landmark annotation demonstration on human cone beam computed tomography scans

Author Spotlight: Three-Dimensional Cephalometric Landmark Annotation Demonstration on Human Cone Beam Computed Tomography Scans  

Presented here is a detailed protocol for the conduction of three-dimensional cephalometric analysis with the use of human cone beam computed tomography...

Three-Dimensional Cephalometric Landmark Annotation Demonstration on Human Cone Beam Computed Tomography Scans

time-resolved, dynamic computed tomography angiography for characterization of aortic endoleaks and treatment guidance via 2d-3d fusion-imaging

Time-Resolved, Dynamic Computed Tomography Angiography for Characterization of Aortic Endoleaks and Treatment Guidance via 2D-3D Fusion-Imaging

Dynamic computed tomography angiography (CTA) imaging provides additional diagnostic value in characterizing aortic endoleaks. This protocol describes a qualitative and quantitative approach using time-attenuation curve analysis to characterize endoleaks. The technique of integrating dynamic CTA imaging with fluoroscopy using 2D-3D image fusion is illustrated for better image guidance during...

Time-Resolved, Dynamic Computed Tomography Angiography for Characterization of Aortic Endoleaks and Treatment Guidance via 2D-3D Fusion-Imaging

enhancing electrode location assessment in cochlear implantation via computed tomography image fusion

This protocol demonstrates a method for fusing pre-operative and post-operative computed tomography images for cochlear implant recipients. The approach may enhance the measurement accuracy of insertion depth and the center frequency of electrode array contacts. Additionally, this method has potential applications in anatomy-based fitting, an emerging area within the cochlear implant...

Enhancing Electrode Location Assessment in Cochlear Implantation via Computed Tomography Image Fusion

dual-phase cone-beam computed tomography to see, reach, and treat hepatocellular carcinoma during drug-eluting beads transarterial chemo-embolization

Dual-phase Cone-beam Computed Tomography to See, Reach, and Treat Hepatocellular Carcinoma during Drug-eluting Beads Transarterial Chemo-embolization

Dual-phase cone-beam computed tomography (DP-CBCT) is a useful intraprocedural imaging technique for transarterial chemo-embolization treatment with drug-eluting beads of hepatocellular carcinoma. DP-CBCT has been used to perform three major steps in oncologic interventional radiology: tumor localization (see), navigation and intraprocedural catheter guidance (reach), and intraprocedural evaluation of treatment success...

application of deep learning-based medical image segmentation via orbital computed tomography

Application of Deep Learning-Based Medical Image Segmentation via Orbital Computed Tomography

An object segmentation protocol for orbital computed tomography (CT) images is introduced. The methods of labeling the ground truth of orbital structures by using super-resolution, extracting the volume of interest from CT images, and modeling multi-label segmentation using 2D sequential U-Net for orbital CT images are explained for supervised...

Application of Deep Learning-Based Medical Image Segmentation via Orbital Computed Tomography

three-dimensional navigation-guided, prone, single-position, lateral lumbar interbody fusion technique

Three-dimensional Navigation-guided, Prone, Single-position, Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion Technique

The single-position, prone, lateral approach allows for both lateral lumbar interbody placement and direct posterior decompression with pedicle screw placement in one...

application of stand-alone oblique lateral interbody fusion in l4-5 lumbar diseases

Application of Stand-Alone Oblique Lateral Interbody Fusion in L4-5 Lumbar Diseases

This study describes the application of oblique lateral interbody fusion in lumbar spinal...

non-invasive skeletal muscle quantification in small animals using micro-computed tomography

This protocol uses micro-computed tomography to enable the cost-effective quantification of lean mass, including skeletal muscle and visceral tissue, adipose tissue, and skeletal tissue in small animals. It distinguishes between lean and adipose tissue, which offers significant advantages for biomedical research, particularly in translational research in small...

Non-invasive Skeletal Muscle Quantification in Small Animals Using Micro-computed Tomography

high-resolution cardiac positron emission tomography/computed tomography for small animals

High-Resolution Cardiac Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography for Small Animals

Here, we present an experimental imaging protocol for the quantification of cardiac function and morphology using high-resolution positron emission tomography/computed tomography for small animals. Both mice and rats are considered, discussing the different requirements of computed tomography contrast agents for the two...

electromagnetic navigation transthoracic nodule localization for minimally invasive thoracic surgery

Electromagnetic Navigation Transthoracic Nodule Localization for Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgery

Presented here is a protocol for lung nodule localization using dye marking via electromagnetically navigated transthoracic needle access. The technique described here can be accomplished in the peri-operative period to optimize nodule localization and to successful resection when performing minimally invasive thoracic...

minimally invasive treatment for thoracolumbar burst fracture using sagittal alignment screws and a trauma reduction device

Author Spotlight: Minimally Invasive Non-Fusion Fixation for Thoracolumbar Fractures Using Percutaneous Pedicle Screws Technique

The sagittal adjusting screw (SAS) system has been widely used for thoracolumbar (TL) spinal trauma. Percutaneous options and specialized trauma reduction devices are also available for the SAS system. We describe a technique for reducing TL burst fractures using an SAS system and a newly introduced trauma reduction device.

Technique of Sagittal Adjusting Screw System for Thoracolumbar Burst Fractures

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oblique lumbar interbody fusion at l5-s1 segment through an approach between the psoas muscle and the great vessels

Oblique Lumbar Interbody Fusion at L5-S1 Segment Through an Approach Between the Psoas Muscle and the Great Vessels

The protocol presents an OLIF L5-S1 technique that offers a more feasible approach for lumbosacral fusion sharing a common surgical plane with OLIF L2-5. This facilitates reproducible multi-level interbody fusions extending from L2 to S1 through a retroperitoneal oblique corridor between the Psoas muscle and the great...

image rendering techniques in postmortem computed tomography: evaluation of biological health and profile in stranded cetaceans

Image Rendering Techniques in Postmortem Computed Tomography: Evaluation of Biological Health and Profile in Stranded Cetaceans

The Hong Kong cetacean stranding response program has incorporated postmortem computed tomography, which provides valuable information on the biological health and profile of the deceased animals. This study describes 8 image rendering techniques that are essential for the identification and visualization of postmortem findings in stranded cetaceans, which will help clinicians, veterinarians and stranding response personnel worldwide to fully utilize the radiological...

minimally-invasive technique for injection into rat optic nerve

Minimally-invasive Technique for Injection into Rat Optic Nerve

Direct injection into the rat optic nerve is useful for regenerative research. We demonstrate a minimally-invasive technique for direct injection into a rat optic nerve that does not involve opening the skull. Using this method, surgical complications are minimized and recovery is more rapid.

sample preparation for computed tomography-based three-dimensional visualization of murine hind-limb vessels

Sample Preparation for Computed Tomography-based Three-dimensional Visualization of Murine Hind-limb Vessels

Here, we describe a visualization and quantification method for murine hind-limb vessels using micro-X-ray computed tomography.

minimally invasive surgical decompression of occipital nerves

Author Spotlight: Minimally Invasive Relief for Occipital Neuralgia at the Nuchal Line

The manuscript presents a minimally invasive nerve and muscle-sparing surgical protocol to decompress occipital nerves aiming to improve occipital...

Minimally Invasive Surgical Decompression of Occipital Nerves

endoscopic endonasal trans-sphenoidal approach: minimally invasive surgery for pituitary adenomas

Endoscopic Endonasal Trans-sphenoidal Approach: Minimally Invasive Surgery for Pituitary Adenomas

The aim of this paper is to describe the different steps of the endoscopic endonasal approach to the sella...

The advent of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) in the angiography suite has been revolutionary in interventional radiology. CBCT offers 3 dimensional&#160;(3D) diagnostic imaging in the interventional suite and can enhance minimally-invasive therapy beyond the limitations of 2D angiography alone. The role of CBCT has been recognized in transarterial chemo-embolization (TACE) treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The recent introduction of a CBCT technique: dual-phase CBCT (DP-CBCT) improves intra-arterial HCC treatment with drug-eluting beads (DEB-TACE). DP-CBCT can be used to localize liver tumors with the diagnostic accuracy of multi-phasic multidetector computed tomography (M-MDCT) and contrast enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (CE-MRI) (See the tumor), to guide intra-arterially guidewire and microcatheter to the desired location for selective therapy (Reach the tumor), and to evaluate treatment success during the procedure (Treat the tumor). The purpose of this manuscript is to illustrate how DP-CBCT is used in DEB-TACE to see, reach, and treat HCC.

Dual-phase cone-beam computed tomography (DP-CBCT) is a useful intraprocedural imaging technique for transarterial chemo-embolization treatment with drug-eluting beads of hepatocellular carcinoma. DP-CBCT has been used to perform three major steps in oncologic interventional radiology: tumor localization (see), navigation and intraprocedural catheter guidance (reach), and intraprocedural evaluation of treatment success (treat).

The advent of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) in the angiography suite has been revolutionary in interventional radiology. CBCT offers 3 ...

Minimally Invasive Establishment of Murine Orthotopic Bladder Xenografts

Orthotopic bladder cancer xenografts are the gold standard to study molecular cellular manipulations and new therapeutic agents&#160;in vivo. Suitable cell lines are inoculated either by intravesical instillation (model of nonmuscle invasive growth) or intramural injection into the bladder wall (model of invasive growth). Both procedures are complex and highly time-consuming. Additionally, the superficial model has its shortcomings due to the lack of cell lines that are tumorigenic following instillation. Intramural injection, on the other hand, is marred by the invasiveness of the procedure and the associated morbidity for the host mouse.
With these shortcomings in mind, we modified previous methods to develop a minimally invasive approach for creating orthotopic bladder cancer xenografts. Using ultrasound guidance we have successfully performed percutaneous inoculation of the bladder cancer cell lines UM-UC1, UM-UC3 and UM-UC13 into 50 athymic nude. We have been able to demonstrate that this approach is time efficient, precise and safe. With this technique, initially a space is created under the bladder mucosa with PBS, and tumor cells are then injected into this space in a second step. Tumor growth is monitored at regular intervals with bioluminescence imaging and ultrasound. The average tumor volumes increased steadily in in all but one of our 50 mice over the study period.
In our institution, this novel approach, which allows bladder cancer xenograft inoculation in a minimally-invasive, rapid and highly precise way, has replaced the traditional model.

The established technique to inoculate primary invasive orthotopic bladder cancer xenografts requires laparotomy and mobilization of the bladder. This procedure inflicts significant morbidity on the mice, is technically challenging and time-consuming. We therefore developed a high-precision, percutaneous approach utilizing ultrasound guidance.

Orthotopic bladder cancer xenografts are the gold standard to study molecular cellular manipulations and new therapeutic agents&#160;in vivo. Suitable ...

Encapsulation Thermogenic Preadipocytes for Transplantation into Adipose Tissue Depots

Cell encapsulation was developed to entrap viable cells within semi-permeable membranes. The engrafted encapsulated cells can exchange low molecular weight metabolites in tissues of the treated host to achieve long-term survival. The semipermeable membrane allows engrafted encapsulated cells to avoid rejection by the immune system. The encapsulation procedure was designed to enable a controlled release of bioactive compounds, such as insulin, other hormones, and cytokines. Here we describe a method for encapsulation of catabolic cells, which consume lipids for heat production and energy dissipation (thermogenesis) in the intra-abdominal adipose tissue of obese mice. Encapsulation of thermogenic catabolic cells may be potentially applicable to the prevention and treatment of obesity and type 2 diabetes. Another potential application of catabolic cells may include detoxification from alcohols or other toxic metabolites and environmental pollutants.

Here, we present a protocol for encapsulation of catabolic cells, which consume lipids for heat production in intra-abdominal adipose tissue and increase energy dissipation in obese mice.

Cell encapsulation was developed to entrap viable cells within semi-permeable membranes. The engrafted encapsulated cells can exchange low molecular ...

The increased use of chest computed tomography (CT) has led to an increased detection of pulmonary nodules requiring diagnostic evaluation and/or excision. Many of these nodules are identified and excised via minimally invasive thoracic surgery; however, subcentimeter and subsolid nodules are frequently difficult to identify intra-operatively. This can be mitigated by the use of electromagnetic transthoracic needle localization. This protocol delineates the step-by-step process of electromagnetic localization from the pre-operative period to the postoperative period and is an adaptation of the electromagnetically guided percutaneous biopsy previously described by Arias et al. Pre-operative steps include obtaining a same day CT followed by the generation of a three-dimensional virtual map of the lung. From this map, the target lesion(s) and an entry site are chosen. In the operating room, the virtual reconstruction of the lung is then calibrated with the patient and the electromagnetic navigation platform. The patient is then sedated, intubated, and placed in the lateral decubitus position. Using a sterile technique and visualization from multiple views, the needle is inserted into the chest wall at the prechosen skin entry site and driven down to the target lesion. Dye is then injected into the lesion and, then, continuously during needle withdrawal, creating a tract for visualization intra-operatively. This method has many potential benefits when compared to the CT-guided localization, including a decreased radiation exposure and decreased time between the dye injection and the surgery. Dye diffusion from the pathway occurs over time, thereby limiting intra-operative nodule identification. By decreasing the time to surgery, there is a decrease in wait time for the patient, and less time for dye diffusion to occur, resulting in an improvement in nodule localization. When compared to electromagnetic bronchoscopy, airway architecture is no longer a limitation as the target nodule is accessed via a transparenchymal approach. Details of this procedure are described in a step-by-step fashion.

Presented here is a protocol for lung nodule localization using dye marking via electromagnetically navigated transthoracic needle access. The technique described here can be accomplished in the peri-operative period to optimize nodule localization and to successful resection when performing minimally invasive thoracic surgery.

The increased use of chest computed tomography (CT) has led to an increased detection of pulmonary nodules requiring diagnostic evaluation and/or ...

A Pre-clinical Rat Model for the Study of Ischemia-reperfusion Injury in Reconstructive Microsurgery

Ischemia-reperfusion injury is the main cause of flap failure in reconstructive microsurgery. The rat is the preferred preclinical animal model in many areas of biomedical research due to its cost-effectiveness and its translation to humans. This protocol describes a method to create a preclinical free skin flap model in rats with ischemia-reperfusion injury. The described 3 cm x 6 cm rat free skin flap model is easily obtained after the placement of several vascular ligatures and the section of the vascular pedicle. Then, 8 h after the ischemic insult and completion of the microsurgical anastomosis, the free skin flap develops the tissue damage. These ischemia-reperfusion injury-related damages can be studied in this model, making it a suitable model for evaluating therapeutic agents to address this pathophysiological process. Furthermore, two main monitoring techniques are described in the protocol for the assessment of this animal model: transit-time ultrasound technology and laser speckle contrast analysis.

Here, we describe a pre-clinical animal model for studying the pathophysiology of ischemia-reperfusion injury in reconstructive microsurgery. This free skin flap model based on the superficial caudal epigastric vessels in the rat may also allow for the evaluation of different therapies and compounds to counteract ischemia-reperfusion injury-related damage.

Ischemia-reperfusion injury is the main cause of flap failure in reconstructive microsurgery. The rat is the preferred preclinical animal model in many ...

Evaluation of Capnography Sampling Line Compatibility and Accuracy when Used with a Portable Capnography Monitor

Capnography is commonly used to monitor patient&#8217;s ventilatory status. While sidestream capnography has been shown to provide a reliable assessment of end-tidal CO2 (ETCO2), its accuracy is commonly validated using commercial kits composed of a capnography monitor and its matching disposable nasal cannula sampling lines. The purpose of this study was to assess the compatibility and accuracy of cross-paired capnography sampling lines with a single portable bedside capnography monitor. A series of 4 bench tests were performed to evaluate the tensile strength, rise time, ETCO2 accuracy as a function of respiratory rate, and ETCO2 accuracy in the presence of supplemental O2. Each bench test was performed using specialized, validated equipment to allow for a full evaluation of sampling line performance. The 4 bench tests successfully differentiated between sampling lines from different commercial sources and suggested that due to increased rise time and decreased ETCO2 accuracy, not all nasal cannula sampling lines provide reliable clinical data when cross-paired with a commercial capnography monitor. Care should be taken to ensure that any cross-pairing of capnography monitors and disposable sampling lines is fully validated for use across respiratory rates and supplemental O2 flow rates commonly encountered in clinical settings.

The goal of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of capnography sampling lines used in conjunction with a portable bedside capnography monitor. Sampling lines from 7 manufacturers were evaluated for tensile strength, rise time, and ETCO2 accuracy as a function of respiratory rate or supplemental oxygen flow rate.

Capnography is commonly used to monitor patient&#8217;s ventilatory status. While sidestream capnography has been shown to provide a reliable assessment ...

In the United States, more than 80% of all abdominal aortic aneurysms are treated by endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR). The endovascular approach warrants good early results, but adequate follow-up imaging after EVAR is imperative to maintain long-term positive outcomes. Potential graft-related complications are graft migration, infection, fraction, and endoleaks, with the last one being the most common. The most frequently used imaging after EVAR is computed tomography angiography (CTA) and duplex ultrasound. Dynamic, time-resolved computed tomography angiography (d-CTA) is a reasonably new technique to characterize the endoleaks. Multiple scans are done sequentially around the endograft during acquisition that grants good visualization of the contrast passage and graft-related complications. This high diagnostic accuracy of d-CTA can be implemented into therapy via image fusion and reduce additional radiation and contrast material exposure.
This protocol describes the technical aspects of this modality: patient selection, preliminary image review, d-CTA scan acquisition, image processing, qualitative and quantitative endoleak characterization. The steps of integrating dynamic CTA into intra-operative fluoroscopy using 2D-3D fusion-imaging to facilitate targeted embolization are also demonstrated. In conclusion, time-resolved, dynamic CTA is an ideal modality for endoleak characterization with additional quantitative analysis. It can reduce radiation and iodinated contrast material exposure during endoleak treatment by guiding interventions.

Dynamic computed tomography angiography (CTA) imaging provides additional diagnostic value in characterizing aortic endoleaks. This protocol describes a qualitative and quantitative approach using time-attenuation curve analysis to characterize endoleaks. The technique of integrating dynamic CTA imaging with fluoroscopy using 2D-3D image fusion is illustrated for better image guidance during treatment.

In the United States, more than 80% of all abdominal aortic aneurysms are treated by endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR). The endovascular approach ...

Blood vessels are complex networks with tree-like structures, and vascular networks are essential for maintaining both circulation and maintaining organ function. Clarifying the mechanism of blood vessel formation is therefore extremely useful for elucidating developmental processes and pathological mechanisms. Murine hind-limb vessels are often used as a model for physiological and pathological angiogenesis. Evaluation is mainly performed via a two-dimensional method using tissue sections. However, methods for evaluating three-dimensional (3D) vascular morphology are particularly limited. This paper introduces a method for visualizing murine hind-limbs using computed tomography (CT). Radiation-opaque resin is injected through the descending aorta, and whole vessels are filled with dye. By adjusting the time of dye injection, arterial-specific filling is also possible, and samples can be obtained with any micro-X-ray CT device. This contrast method provides a basic technique for the 3D evaluation of murine blood vessels in the lower extremities. Furthermore, this method can be used to visualize all blood vessels below the diaphragm and evaluate blood vessels in the abdominal organs.

Here, we describe a visualization and quantification method for murine hind-limb vessels using micro-X-ray computed tomography.

Blood vessels are complex networks with tree-like structures, and vascular networks are essential for maintaining both circulation and maintaining organ ...

This study aims to investigate the technical aspects of microscope-assisted anterior decompression fusion and to introduce a spreader system suitable for minimally invasive anterior lumbar interbody fusion (Mini-ALIF). This article is a technical description of anterior lumbar spine surgery under a microscope. We retrospectively collected information on patients who underwent microscope-assisted Mini-ALIF surgery at our hospital between July 2020 and August 2022. A repeated-measures ANOVA was used to compare imaging indicators between periods. Forty-two patients were included in the study. The mean volume of intraoperative bleeding was 180 mL, and the mean operative time was 143 min. The mean follow-up time was 18 months. Apart from one case of peritoneal rupture, no other serious complications occurred. The postoperative foramen and disc height were both higher on average than before surgery. The spreader-assisted micro-Mini-ALIF is simple and easy to use. It can provide good intraoperative disc exposure, good discrimination of important structures, adequate spreading of the intervertebral space, and the restoration of the necessary intervertebral height, which is very helpful for less experienced surgeons.

The technique described in this article is well-suited to the Mini-ALIF procedure, allows for excellent exposure and decompression, and facilitates microscope-assisted manipulation.

This study aims to investigate the technical aspects of microscope-assisted anterior decompression fusion and to introduce a spreader system suitable for ...

3D Cephalometric Landmark Annotation Demonstration on Human CBCT Scans

Craniofacial cephalometric analysis is a diagnostic tool used for the assessment of the relationship of various bones and soft tissues in the head and face. Cephalometric analysis has been traditionally conducted with the use of 2D radiographs and landmark sets and restricted to size, linear and angular measurements, and 2D relationships. The increasing use of 3D cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans in the dental field dictates the need for the evolution to 3D cephalometric analysis, which incorporates shape and a more realistic analysis of longitudinal development in all three planes. This study is a demonstration of 3D cephalometric analysis with the use of a validated set of skeletal tissue landmarks on human CBCT scans. Detailed instructions for the annotation of each landmark on a 3D volume are provided as part of a step-by-step protocol. The generated measurements and 3D coordinates of the landmarks can be exported and used both for clinical and research purposes. The introduction of 3D cephalometric analysis in basic and clinical craniofacial studies will lead to future advancements in the field of craniofacial growth and development.

Presented here is a detailed protocol for the conduction of three-dimensional cephalometric analysis with the use of human cone beam computed tomography scans.

Craniofacial cephalometric analysis is a diagnostic tool used for the assessment of the relationship of various bones and soft tissues in the head and ...