Relationship Between Vertebral Vessels and Cortical Path Screws in Cortical Transfixation

Introduction: This study aims to evaluate the safety of using the cortical path screw with transfixation of the second cortical bone in relation to the vascular structures. Methods: This retrospective observational study (level of evidence: III, study of non-consecutive patients) analyzed data from the medical records of patients who underwent computed angiotomography scans of the abdomen at Hospital Mater Dei, measuring, in millimeters, the distance between the point of the lumbar vertebra considered the anatomical reference for the transfixation of the second cortical bone and the vascular structures adjacent to the spine (abdominal aorta, inferior vena cava, iliac vessels, segmental lumbar arteries). Results: Forty-eight patients were evaluated, with a mean age of 60 years (±8 years, 41-75), of whom 52% were male and 48% female. The measurements obtained between the pre-vertebral vessels and the possible screw exit points did not demonstrate contact in any of the vertebrae studied. Conclusions: The measurements obtained suggest the safety of using the cortical path screw transfixing the second cortical bone. Knowing the position of the vessels is essential to reduce intra- and postoperative complications related to spinal instrumentation. Level of evidence III; Study of non-consecutive patients.