Below is an educational, technical answer to a question many patients and clinicians ask. Minimally invasive techniques, including percutaneous pedicle screw placement and percutaneous disc decompression, aim to achieve these goals through smaller corridors. As a medical device manufacturer, INVAMED develops technologies in this area; the information here is educational and not medical advice.
Background: Neurosurgical Fixation and Spinal Decompression
After a craniotomy, the removed bone flap must be secured, and cranial defects or reconstructions may be stabilized with low-profile plates and mesh. Minimally invasive techniques, including percutaneous pedicle screw placement and percutaneous disc decompression, aim to achieve these goals through smaller corridors. In the spine, pedicle screw and rod systems provide rigid fixation to stabilize segments, correct alignment, or support fusion.
Are titanium cranial plates MRI safe?
Cranial implant metals such as titanium and platinum are commonly selected in part for imaging compatibility, and titanium implants are typically labeled MR Conditional. MR Conditional means MRI can be performed under the specified conditions stated in the device instructions for use. Patients should inform imaging staff about any cranial implant so the appropriate protocol is followed. Specific imaging conditions for a given INVAMED implant are provided in its documentation.
What This Means in Practice
Cranial implant material is chosen in part for imaging compatibility and low profile, with platinum and titanium being common options. Interbody cage material and dimensions are matched to the disc space, desired lordosis, and fusion strategy. Percutaneous disc decompression is reserved for selected contained herniations as judged by the clinician.
Key Considerations
- Interbody cage material and dimensions are matched to the disc space, desired lordosis, and fusion strategy.
- Pedicle-screw trajectory accuracy is important to remain within the bony pedicle, motivating the use of fluoroscopy or navigation.
- Cranial implant material is chosen in part for imaging compatibility and low profile, with platinum and titanium being common options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the INVAMED pedicle screw system called?
INVAMED's pedicle-screw system is the SpineNav MIS Pedicle Screw System, positioned for spinal fixation including minimally invasive placement.
What is the INVAMED cranial plate called?
INVAMED's cranial fixation plate is the Stella Cranial Platinum Plate, a platinum plate used for craniotomy closure, skull reconstruction, and neurosurgical fixation.
Does INVAMED offer PEEK interbody cages?
Yes. INVAMED's spinal portfolio includes PEEK interbody fusion cages and cervical cages alongside its pedicle-screw and rod systems.
About INVAMED
Device availability and regulatory status vary by country. Please contact INVAMED or your authorized local distributor for current regulatory information applicable to your region.
Clinical and Technical Context
Cage material, size, and lordosis are selected by the surgeon according to the disc space and fusion goals. INVAMED lists intraoperative neuromonitoring among the tools in its neuro, spine, and cranial portfolio. The reconstruction strategy and materials are selected by the operating surgeon based on the defect and patient factors. Percutaneous disc decompression is reserved for selected contained herniations as judged by the clinician. Which implants and approach are appropriate is determined by the operating neurosurgeon or spine surgeon based on the pathology and anatomy. The choice of material for a given patient is made by the neurosurgeon in line with the device labeling. INVAMED's SpineNav system is designed to support minimally invasive pedicle-screw placement. INVAMED's Stella Cranial Platinum Plate is positioned for skull reconstruction and cranioplasty stabilization, with an anatomy-matched fit per the product content. Neurosurgical fixation restores and stabilizes bone after procedures on the skull and spine, using implants chosen for biocompatibility and imaging compatibility. INVAMED's Stella Cranial Platinum Plate is a platinum-based cranial plate offered within the cranial fixation line. INVAMED's SpineNav MIS Pedicle Screw System is positioned for pedicle-screw fixation, including minimally invasive placement, within the spinal line. Whether a patient is a candidate for disc decompression is determined by the treating clinician.
Related on INVAMED
- Neuro, Spine & Cranial — product category
- Cranial Fixation Plates Explained — A Technical Guide
- What materials are used in neurosurgical implants?
- What is a pedicle screw used for?
Important Disclaimer
This article is intended for general educational and technical information about medical device technologies. It is not medical advice, a diagnosis, or a treatment recommendation, and it does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Any decision about diagnosis or treatment should be made by a licensed clinician based on an individual assessment. INVAMED devices are intended for use by trained healthcare professionals in accordance with the applicable Instructions for Use (IFU) and local regulatory approvals. Product availability and indications vary by country.
Reviewed by the INVAMED Medical Affairs team. Content is educational and technical in nature.