Sacropelvic fixation

Abstract

AbstractThe sacropelvis is not only an anatomically complex region but also a biomechanically unique zone transferring axial weights via the transitional lumbosacral junction and the pelvic girdle to the lower appendicular skeleton. When the sacral instrumentation alone is insufficient to achieve stability and solid arthrodesis across the lumbosacral junction, as in long-segment fusions, high-grade spondylolisthesis, deformity corrections, complex sacral/lumbosacral injuries, and neoplasms, sacropelvic fixation is indicated. Many modern sacropelvic fixation modalities outperform historical modalities, especially the conventionally open and percutaneous iliac and S2-alar-iliac screw (S2AI) fixation techniques. Novel screw insertion technologies such as navigation and robotics and modern screw designs aim to maximize the accuracy of screw placement and minimize complications. This review addresses the anatomy and biomechanics of the sacropelvic region as well as the indications, evolution, advantages, and disadvantages of various past and contemporary techniques of lumbosacral and sacropelvic fixation.