Professional
Technical
IVT
pedicle screw
Titanium screw inserted through the pedicle of a vertebra for spinal fixation and fusion procedures.
Full Definition
A specialized orthopedic implant consisting of a titanium screw that is inserted through the pedicle (the stalk-like portion of the vertebra) to anchor into the vertebral body. Pedicle screws provide three-column fixation and are connected by rods to create a rigid construct for spinal fusion. They represent the gold standard for posterior spinal instrumentation due to their superior biomechanical properties and pullout strength compared to other fixation methods.
Usage
Usage note: Essential component of modern posterior spinal instrumentation systems.
In Context
- "Bilateral pedicle screws were placed at L4 and L5 with satisfactory positioning confirmed by fluoroscopy." — Operative report
- "The pedicle screw demonstrated excellent osseointegration at six-month follow-up." — Imaging report
Also known as
transpedicular screw
Contrasted with
laminar hook
Don't confuse with
cortical screw
facet screw