[The WSH percutaneous spine fixation device. Actual results and future expectations].

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to report our initial experience with a new percutaneous spine fixation system, avoiding open exposure, excessive blood loss and extensive muscle dissection. With the specially designed plates, this system can be used whatever the conformation of the segment instrumented is kyphotic or lordotic.

METHODS: Sixteen patients (9 men and 7 women ranging in age from 27 to 78 years, mean 54.9) underwent percutaneous pedicle fixation using this device. Twelve patients underwent single level fusions (discogenic lowback pain in 6 cases, spondylolisthesis in 1), and 4 underwent two-level fusions (2 for lumbar fracture and 2 for spondylolisthesis). TLIF by intersomatic cages were inserted at the same time in two patients with spondylolisthesis. The follow-up period ranged from 3 to 15 months (mean 5 months).

RESULTS: Improvement in pain control was assessed using a specially designed scale, allowing qualitative self-evaluation of pain control. Pain control was excellent in 12 patients, good in 3 and poor in one case due to loss of independence related to multiple associated disabling conditions.

CONCLUSIONS: Percutaneous pedicule screw insertion using this device is a safe and reliable technique. Further improvements in the system which allows a certain degree of spinal mobility after screw placement are in process. Early results shown in this study illustrate the perspectives.