Title

CT-Based Anatomical Evaluation of Pre-Vertebral Structures with Respect to Vertebral Body Using a Clock-Face Analogy

Publication Date

2015

Journal Title

Spine (Phila Pa 1976)

Abstract

STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective Chart and CT Scan ReviewObjective. To define the relationship of the pre-vertebral structures for each level to assist in easier intraoperative visualization. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Vascular and visceral injury from pedicle screw is well-known. This study will define the relationship of the pre-vertebral structures for each level to assist in avoiding potential complications. METHODS: Pre- and post-operative CT scans were reviewed to define the pre-vertebra structures in relation to a clock-face. On reformatted axial slices, a clock-face was superimposed so that the left transverse process (TP) represented 8 o'clock and the right TP represented 4 o'clock. The positions of the TP on the clock-face did not change with rotation of the vertebra. RESULTS: 108 patients had pre-operative CT scan. 78 had post-operative CT scan. Median age was 15 years, median Cobb angle 50 degrees , levels fused were 12, with 21 fixation points. 6324 axial CT slices were reformatted and analyzed. Trachea was located at 12 o'clock at T1, 1 o'clock at T2-T4, and between 12 and 1 o'clock at T5. Esophagus starts as a midline structure at 12 o'clock from T1-T2, moves to 11 o'clock from T3-T6, and further to 10 o'clock from T7-T9. Aorta starts at 10 o'clock at T5-T6, moves left at T7-T8 to 9 o'clock, and returns to 10 o'clock from T9-T11. It appears at 11'clock at T12, and at 12 o'clock from L1-L4. In about a third of cases, it is at 1 o'clock from L1 to L4, where it bifurcates. CONCLUSIONS: This CT-based anatomical study provides a simple reference frame to help surgeons visualize the vital structures at each level. This three-dimensional visualization is facilitated by fixing the position of TP on the clock-face. Knowledge of this anatomical relationship can help avoid direct injury, and is easier to recall intra-operatively.

Volume Number

40

Issue Number

24

Pages

1918-25

Document Type

Article

EPub Date

2015/08/12

Status

Northwell Researcher

Facility

Northwell Health

Primary Department

Orthopedic Surgery

Additional Departments

Pediatrics

PMID

26261919

DOI

10.1097/brs.0000000000001100

For the public and Northwell Health campuses

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