Critical analysis for a safe design of 3D printed Patient-Specific Surgical Guides (PSSG) for pedicle screw insertion in spinal deformities

Pedicle screws are used in spinal fusion for the stabilisation of the spine through a posterior approach. In spinal deformities, such as scoliosis, pedicle screw placement is especially challenging due to vertebral rotation and landmark distortion. Conventional surgical procedures such as Free-hand screw insertion mainly rely on surgeon experience and anatomical landmarks. Image- and robot-guided pedicle screw insertion can improve placement...