What is the Spine Localizer?

The Laser-Guided Spine Localizer is a novel device for precise determination of the location of the incision to reach a particular spine target (e.g. disc space or pedicle). It facilitates microsurgical and minimally-invasive surgical approaches through small incisions. It is composed of a central ring (R), on the perimeter of which four planar laser diodes (D) have been installed at right ... Read More...

Why use the Spine Localizer?

The Spine Localizer overcomes the shortcomings of existing localization techniques. Currently, most surgeons rely on three methods: palpation of anatomical landmarks alone, needle localization with portable x-ray, or intraoperative fluoroscopy. Reliance solely on palpation of anatomical landmarks is prone to inaccuracy, often requiring extension of the skin incision or working awkwardly through an angled trajectory. In our study, surgeon's ... Read More...

How does the Localizer work?

Instead of inserting a needle into the spine and taking an x-ray, the localizer hangs a theoretical plumb line through the target spine segment. The challenge is to make this virtual plumb line visible on x-ray. The two radio-opaque cables act as visible proxies for the plumb line on lateral radiography. The key to accuracy is to ... Read More...

How to Locate a Disc Space with the Spine Localizer

1. The location of the target is estimated based on palpation of anatomical landmarks and marked on the skin. 2. The localizer’s bombsight is centered on the skin mark. 3. The two sagittal beams are aligned with the midline of the spine (placing the two axial beams prependicular to the spine). 4. The two radio-opaque cables are aligned with the two axial beams. 5. ... Read More...

How to use the Localizer for Pedicle Localization

The steps in pedicle localization in conjunction with fluoroscopy are detailed in Narrated Slideshow #4. They are also demonstrated in real time in the featured video (Mini-Open Pedicle Screw Insertion). Read More...