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
Minimally invasive techniques, including percutaneous pedicle screw placement and percutaneous disc decompression, aim to achieve these goals through smaller corridors. Which implants and approach are appropriate is determined by the operating neurosurgeon or spine surgeon based on the pathology and anatomy. After a craniotomy, the removed bone flap must be secured, and cranial defects or reconstructions may be stabilized with low-profile plates and mesh.
What is a cranial fixation plate?
A cranial fixation plate is a small, low-profile metal plate used to secure a bone flap after craniotomy or to stabilize a cranial reconstruction. It holds the bone edges in alignment with screws while healing proceeds, and materials are chosen for biocompatibility and imaging compatibility. INVAMED's Stella Cranial Platinum Plate is a platinum cranial plate used for craniotomy closure, skull reconstruction, and neurosurgical fixation. Plate selection is made by the neurosurgeon for the specific reconstruction.
What This Means in Practice
All INVAMED neuro, spine, and cranial implants are intended for use by trained neurosurgical and spine surgical teams and per the IFU. Manufacturer descriptions, such as an anatomy-matched cranial plate fit, reflect design intent rather than guaranteed outcomes. Interbody cage material and dimensions are matched to the disc space, desired lordosis, and fusion strategy.
Key Considerations
- Percutaneous disc decompression is reserved for selected contained herniations as judged by the clinician.
- Interbody cage material and dimensions are matched to the disc space, desired lordosis, and fusion strategy.
- Cranial implant material is chosen in part for imaging compatibility and low profile, with platinum and titanium being common options.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
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
INVAMED's SpineNav system is designed to support minimally invasive pedicle-screw placement. Interbody fusion cages, often made of PEEK or titanium, are placed between vertebral bodies to restore disc height and promote bony fusion. Cranial implant material is chosen in part for imaging compatibility and low profile, with platinum and titanium being common options. After a craniotomy, the removed bone flap must be secured, and cranial defects or reconstructions may be stabilized with low-profile plates and mesh. The construct length and screw placement are planned and executed by the operating spine surgeon. In the spine, pedicle screw and rod systems provide rigid fixation to stabilize segments, correct alignment, or support fusion. Whether an open or percutaneous approach is used is a decision made by the spine surgeon for the individual case. All INVAMED neuro, spine, and cranial implants are intended for use by trained neurosurgical and spine surgical teams and per the IFU. INVAMED's SpineNav MIS Pedicle Screw System is positioned for pedicle-screw fixation, including minimally invasive placement, within the spinal line. 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. Pedicle-screw trajectory accuracy is important to remain within the bony pedicle, motivating the use of fluoroscopy or navigation.
Related on INVAMED
- Neuro, Spine & Cranial — product category
- Comparing Rigid spinal fixation and Dynamic stabilization
- Stella Cranial Platinum Plate: Features, Specifications and Clinical Role
- SpineNav MIS Pedicle Screw System: Features, Specifications and Clinical Role
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.