Comparing the Efficiency, Radiation Exposure, and Accuracy Using C-Arm versus O-Arm With 3D Navigation in Placement of Transiliac–Transsacral and Iliosacral Screws: A Cadaveric Study Evaluating an Early Career Surgeon

Abstract

Objectives: 

To compare the efficiency, radiation exposure to surgeon and patient, and accuracy of C-arm versus O-arm with navigation in the placement of transiliac–transsacral and iliosacral screws by an orthopaedic trauma fellow, for a surgeon early in practice.

Methods: 

Twelve fresh frozen cadavers were obtained. Preoperative computed tomography scans were reviewed to assess for safe corridors in the S1 and S2 segments. Iliosacral screws were assigned to the S1 segment in dysmorphic pelvises. Screws were randomized to modality and laterality. An orthopaedic trauma fellow placed all screws. Time of procedure and radiation exposure to the cadaver and surgeon were recorded. Three fellowship-trained orthopaedic trauma surgeons rated the safety of each screw on postoperative computed tomography scan.

Results: 

Six normal and 6 dysmorphic pelvises were identified. Eighteen transiliac–transsacral screws and 6 iliosacral screws were distributed evenly between C-arm and O-arm. Average operative duration per screw was significantly shorter using C-arm compared with O-arm (15.7 minutes ± 6.1 vs. 23.7 ± 8.5, P = 0.014). Screw placement with C-arm exposed the surgeon to a significantly greater amount of radiation (3.87 × 10⁻³ rads vs. 0.32 × 10⁻³, P < 0.001) while O-arm exposed the cadaver to a significantly greater amount of radiation (0.03 vs. 2.76 rads, P < 0.001). Two S2 transiliac–transsacral screws (1 C-arm and 1 O-arm) were categorized as unsafe based on scoring. There was no difference in screw accuracy between modalities.

Conclusions: 

A difference in accuracy between modalities could not be elucidated, whereas efficiency was improved with utilization of C-arm, with statistical significance. A statistically significant increase in radiation exposure to the surgeon using C-arm was found, which may be clinically significant over a career. The results of this study can be extrapolated to a fellow or surgeon early in practice. The decision between use of these modalities will vary depending on surgeon preference and hospital resources.