This article compares two approaches side by side to clarify how they differ in principle and practice. Which implants and approach are appropriate is determined by the operating neurosurgeon or spine surgeon based on the pathology and anatomy. 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
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. Interbody fusion cages, often made of PEEK or titanium, are placed between vertebral bodies to restore disc height and promote bony fusion.
Open pedicle screw placement vs Percutaneous placement: Key Differences
Open pedicle screw placement exposes the spine directly for screw insertion, while percutaneous placement uses small incisions with image guidance. The open approach offers broad visualization, whereas the percutaneous approach aims to limit soft-tissue disruption in suitable cases. INVAMED's SpineNav system is designed to support minimally invasive percutaneous placement. The approach is chosen by the spine surgeon based on the pathology and surgical goals.
How INVAMED Supports Both Approaches
INVAMED's neuro, spine, and cranial line spans cranial fixation, pedicle-screw stabilization, interbody fusion, and adjunct agents used in these procedures. Plate shapes, screw and rod dimensions, and cage size ranges are provided in product documentation, and buyers should confirm local registration and indication status. The Stella plate is specified as a platinum cranial plate for craniotomy closure and skull reconstruction, described with a 3D-technology patient-anatomy fit in the product content.
Key Considerations
- All INVAMED neuro, spine, and cranial implants are intended for use by trained neurosurgical and spine surgical teams and per the IFU.
- Pedicle-screw trajectory accuracy is important to remain within the bony pedicle, motivating the use of fluoroscopy or navigation.
- Manufacturer descriptions, such as an anatomy-matched cranial plate fit, reflect design intent rather than guaranteed outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
What is the regulatory status of these neuro and spine devices?
Device availability and regulatory status vary by country. Please contact INVAMED or your authorized local distributor for current regulatory information applicable to your region.
Are titanium cranial plates MRI compatible?
Titanium cranial implants are typically MR Conditional; the specific scanning conditions are stated in the device instructions for use, and imaging staff should be informed of any implant.
About INVAMED
INVAMED operates a dedicated R&D center (INVAcenter) focused on minimally invasive device development. INVAMED is a medical device manufacturer headquartered in Ankara, Turkey, founded in 2005.
Clinical and Technical Context
The reconstruction strategy and materials are selected by the operating surgeon based on the defect and patient factors. In the spine, pedicle screw and rod systems provide rigid fixation to stabilize segments, correct alignment, or support fusion. Manufacturer descriptions, such as an anatomy-matched cranial plate fit, reflect design intent rather than guaranteed outcomes. The choice of material for a given patient is made by the neurosurgeon in line with the device labeling. Pedicle-screw trajectory accuracy is important to remain within the bony pedicle, motivating the use of fluoroscopy or navigation. INVAMED's Stella Cranial Platinum Plate is a platinum-based cranial plate offered within the cranial fixation line. INVAMED lists intraoperative neuromonitoring among the tools in its neuro, spine, and cranial portfolio. INVAMED's Stella Cranial Platinum Plate is a platinum cranial plate used for craniotomy closure, skull reconstruction, and neurosurgical fixation, described with a 3D-technology patient-anatomy fit.
Related on INVAMED
- Neuro, Spine & Cranial — product category
- What is cranioplasty?
- Neuro, Spine & Cranial: A Complete Technical Guide
- Are titanium cranial plates MRI safe?
Important Disclaimer
The information here is provided for educational purposes and to describe device technology; it is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Only a licensed healthcare provider can determine whether a given procedure or device is appropriate for a specific patient. INVAMED products are restricted to use by qualified professionals following the official IFU. Regulatory clearance and labeling differ between regions, and not all products or indications are available in every market.
Reviewed by the INVAMED Medical Affairs team. Content is educational and technical in nature.