S1 Pedicle and delta screw insertion

Pedicle screws in S1 may be used in the management of trauma, deformities, tumors, and degenerative conditions of the lumbar and sacral spine.

For an alternative fixation technique (delta fixation), a more cranial oriented trajectory can be used.

Pedicle screw insertion in S1 with cranial trajectory for delta fixation in sacral spine conditions

Once the spine is exposed, the appropriate levels of fixation are confirmed with the image intensifier.

Due to the distorted anatomy care must be taken to confirm correct fusion levels. Typically, the L5 pedicle is extremely anterior, hidden beneath the sacral alar.

In high grades it recommended to span the fusion from L4 to S1 or pelvis.

Pedicle screw insertion in S1; fusion from L4–S1 advised due to distorted anatomy and L5 position

The entry point of the pedicle screw is defined by the inferior border of the superior facet of S1.

Pedicle screw entry at S1 defined by inferior border of the superior facet in sacral spine fixation.

Open the superficial cortex of the entry point with a burr or a rongeur.

Opening of cortex during S1 pedicle screw insertion

The trajectory of the screw is 30° medially.

Medio-lateral inclination for S1 pedicle screw insertion

A pedicle probe is used to navigate down the isthmus of the pedicle into the vertebral body. The appropriate trajectory of the pedicle probe in the cranial caudal direction occurs by aiming towards the promontory.

Lateral X-rays are taken to confirm tip of probe end in promontory of S1.

Pedicle probe guided into S1 pedicle toward promontory; lateral X-ray confirms probe tip position

Once the pedicle track has been created, it is important to confirm a complete intraosseous trajectory by pedicle and body palpation using a pedicle sounding device. At any point in the process, radiographic confirmation can be obtained.

Note: The selection of a mono- or a polyaxial screw is usually the choice of the surgeon.

Pedicle track confirmed intraosseously with sounding device; radiographs verify trajectory in S1 body

A screw of appropriate diameter and length is carefully inserted into the same created trajectory.

Classically these screws are large in diameter, however, shorter in length than the L5 screws. If screws are too long and breach the anterior cortex, L5 nerve root and great vessels are at risk of injury.

S1 pedicle screw inserted along prepared path; shorter length avoids L5 nerve or vessel injury risk

For an alternative fixation technique (delta fixation), a more cranial oriented trajectory can be used.

This technique can be used in selected cases of Type 5 where reduction is not necessary, but added stability is desired.

The entry point remains the same as the standard S1 pedicle screw.

Delta fixation in S1 uses cranial screw trajectory for added stability in select Type 5 cases

The medial inclination is roughly 15°–20°.

S1 pedicle screw insertion with medial inclination of approximately 15° to 20°

The cranial angulation must allow for perforation of the superior endplate of S1 crossing the L5–S1 and the inferior endplate of L5 into the body of L5.