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Local Neurosurgeon Recognized Nationally for New Spine Procedure
May 18, 2016

(ST. JOSEPH) – Southwest Michigan is on the leading edge of spinal surgery with the formal recognition of a new procedure developed by local neurosurgeon, Christian Sikorski, MD. The procedure, which details the placement of solid screws during minimally-invasive spine surgery, was submitted for review and recognized by the American Association of Neurological Surgeons/Congress of Neurological Surgeons Joint Section on Disorders of the Spine and Peripheral Nerves. In March, Dr. Sikorski presented his abstract at the 32nd annual Spine Summit held in Orlando, Florida.

“The Spine Summit brings together minimally-invasive spine surgeons from across the nation and provides them with the opportunity to learn about this new and groundbreaking procedure and perhaps implement it with their own patients,” said Dr. Sikorski.

Although solid screws are less expensive and stronger than their hollow counterparts, hollow screws have been the standard for use in minimally-invasive spine procedures due to the use of a guide wire that allowed for more accurate placement. However, as part of the newly created procedure, solid screws can now also be placed with 98 percent accuracy. To date, 23 patients at Lakeland Health have undergone spinal surgery using solid screws which may offer additional benefits including safety, longevity, and strength.