This article explains, in educational terms, pedicle screw system — how the technology works and where it fits. Neurosurgical fixation restores and stabilizes bone after procedures on the skull and spine, using implants chosen for biocompatibility and imaging compatibility. 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. After a craniotomy, the removed bone flap must be secured, and cranial defects or reconstructions may be stabilized with low-profile plates and mesh. In the spine, pedicle screw and rod systems provide rigid fixation to stabilize segments, correct alignment, or support fusion.
Pedicle Screw and Rod Systems
Pedicle screws anchor into the vertebral pedicles and connect to rods to provide rigid spinal fixation for stabilization, alignment correction, or fusion support. Polyaxial screw heads allow the rod to be seated across screws that are not perfectly collinear. INVAMED's SpineNav MIS Pedicle Screw System is positioned for pedicle-screw fixation, including minimally invasive placement, within the spinal line. The construct length and screw placement are planned and executed by the operating spine surgeon.
Design and Technical Notes
INVAMED's neuro, spine, and cranial line spans cranial fixation, pedicle-screw stabilization, interbody fusion, and adjunct agents used in these procedures. Manufacturer descriptions, such as an anatomy-matched cranial plate fit, reflect design intent rather than guaranteed outcomes. Pedicle-screw trajectory accuracy is important to remain within the bony pedicle, motivating the use of fluoroscopy or navigation.
Key Considerations
- 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.
- Interbody cage material and dimensions are matched to the disc space, desired lordosis, and fusion strategy.
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.
Who decides which spinal implant to use?
The operating spine surgeon selects implants based on the pathology and anatomy; this article is educational and not a treatment recommendation.
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
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
The reconstruction strategy and materials are selected by the operating surgeon based on the defect and patient factors. Cranial implant material is chosen in part for imaging compatibility and low profile, with platinum and titanium being common options. Manufacturer descriptions, such as an anatomy-matched cranial plate fit, reflect design intent rather than guaranteed outcomes. Pedicle-screw trajectory accuracy is important to remain within the bony pedicle, motivating the use of fluoroscopy or navigation. Which implants and approach are appropriate is determined by the operating neurosurgeon or spine surgeon based on the pathology and anatomy. Interbody fusion cages, often made of PEEK or titanium, are placed between vertebral bodies to restore disc height and promote bony fusion. The use and interpretation of monitoring are handled by the surgical and monitoring team. All INVAMED neuro, spine, and cranial implants are intended for use by trained neurosurgical and spine surgical teams and per the IFU.
Related on INVAMED
- Neuro, Spine & Cranial — product category
- What is a cranial fixation plate?
- Open pedicle screw placement vs Percutaneous placement: What Is the Difference?
- How are pedicle screws placed?
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.