Transarticular (transpedicular) metal plate fixation for stabilization of the lumbar and thoracic spine.

The operation of metal plate fixation of the articular column with the screws traversing the anterior vertebral arch (ventral pedicles) and anchored within the vertebral body is described in detail. The method can be recommended as easy to perform. It gives sufficiently stable fixation in cases where instability of the thoracic or lumbar spine can be expected during an operation from the dorsal approach. Four cases are presented to illustrate the indications and method.