Posterior Spinal Fixation System

This construct is a specialized orthopedic and neurosurgical implant assembly used to rigidly stabilize and fuse segments of the human spine. It is commonly implemented to treat conditions such as severe spinal fractures, spinal deformities (e.g., scoliosis), spondylolisthesis, and degenerative disc disease (Pfeiffer et al., 2003; Sasso et al., 1991).

• Components:

  • Pedicle Screws: The six large threaded anchors visible at the bottom are screwed directly through the pedicles of the vertebrae into the vertebral bodies. They feature “polyaxial” tulip heads, allowing them to pivot so they can align smoothly with the longitudinal rods.

  • Spinal Fixation Rods: The two horizontal metallic bars running through the screw heads act as bridges to prevent motion across the damaged spinal segments.

  • Crosslink (Transverse Connector): The small horizontal plate connecting the two parallel rods in the middle acts as a stabilizer. It reinforces the construct against rotational (torsional) forces.

• Material: It is manufactured from medical-grade titanium alloy or cobalt-chrome, balancing high fatigue strength with excellent biocompatibility to support permanent internal fusion (Sia et al., 2019).