What is pedicle screw fixation?

Pedicle screw fixation is performed in conjunction with spinal fusion surgery to secure the vertebrae of the treated area in a fixed position. These devices provide stability and support to the spine after surgery and keep bone grafts in position while the spine heals.

How are pedicle screws placed?

Pedicle screws are placed above and below the vertebrae that were fused. A rod is used to connect the screws which prevents movement and allows the bone graft to heal. After the fusion is completely healed, the screws and rods can be removed. Removal isn’t necessary unless they cause the patient discomfort.

Do pedicle screws get removed?

After the bone graft grows, 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 (5% to 10% of cases).

How often do pedicle screws break?

Pedicle screw breakage is reported to occur in 1-11.2% of inserted screws and in 0.4-24.5% of patients3, 5. This implant failure can be a result of pseudarthrosis and can lead to pedicle screw or rod breakage5.

Why do pedicle screws loosen?

It has been shown that the resection of ligaments, facet joints, and laminectomy are associated with the increased range of movements in a spinal segment and as a consequence, an increase in the stress on screw-bone interface that may lead to pedicle screws loosening.

What causes pedicle screws to loosen?

Can you feel the screws after spinal fusion?

“If the hardware is prominent under the skin the patient may feel a painful bump,” Dr. Lieberman explains. “If the hardware loosens or is irritating the surrounding tissue and nerves, the patient may feel pain or may feel and hear crepitus—a crackling sound or popping sound.”

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