Practice Pattern Variations in the Use of Neuromonitoring, Image Guidance, and Robotics for Lumbar Pedicle Screw Placement Based on a Nationwide Neurosurgery Survey.

OBJECTIVE

Lumbar pedicle screw placement surgery involves various assistive technologies, including fluoroscopic, stereotactic, or robotic navigation and intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM). We aimed to discern neurosurgeons' preferences for screw placement techniques and IONM utility, while also considering the influence of experience.

METHODS

A survey was distributed to members of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons using REDCap software, collecting demographic data and querying preferred techniques for screw placement and IONM modalities. Opinions on IONM use during stereotactic or robotic navigation were also obtained. Responses were analyzed using Pearson's Chi-square and analysis of variance tests via R software.

RESULTS

Of 188 responses, 35.5% (n = 67) reported 1-10 years of experience and 64.5% (n = 121) reported ≥ 11 years. Less experienced neurosurgeons used stereotactic navigation more than those with greater experience (P < 0.001). Seasoned neurosurgeons used fluoroscopic guidance more often (P = 0.038). Less experienced neurosurgeons employed 1.69 (± 0.11) techniques for their fixation surgeries compared to 1.50 (± 0.0.8) for more experienced neurosurgeons. Robotic navigation utilization was low and comparable between the groups. Surgeons employing multiple techniques used triggered electromyography the most (62.1%, P = 0.024). No strong opinions emerged on the necessity of multimodality IONM with robotic or stereotactic navigation.

CONCLUSIONS

This national survey shows that stereotactic navigation is the predominant technique for pedicle screw placement among less experienced neurosurgeons, with seasoned neurosurgeons leaning toward fluoroscopic guidance. Robotic guidance was the least used technique with no observed difference based on experience. Neurosurgeons employing multiple techniques use IONM the most, compared with surgeons who only use stereotactic navigation and/or robotic guidance.