Independence

Question 0

Which insertion option (2 screws up or 2 screws down) is typically easier at L5-S1?

Answer 0

2 screws down into S1

Question 1

Does it matter which direction the implant is inserted?

Answer 1

No. For a 1 level

Question 2

Is a stand-alone ALIF spacer as strong as a plate and spacer?

Answer 2

Yes

Question 3

What is the length of the awl? Why is it not longer?

Answer 3

17mm. It is as long as the shortest screw. The drill is also 17mm. The tap is 21mm

Question 4

What are the cephalad/caudal and lateral divergent angles? Why are they set to that degree?

Answer 4

35 degrees +/- 5 , 28 degrees medial divergence. VA screws have a cone of angulation of 5 degrees.

Question 5

What is the posterior height on the Larger, 15mm, 15 degree spacer?

Answer 5

11mm

Question 6

Where should the final positioning of the implant be in relation to the anterior part of the vertebral body?

Answer 6

Flush is ideal

Question 7

What options do we have for older patients?

Answer 7

HA screws, ramp distractor

Question 8

What issues might happen when final tightening the set screw?

Answer 8

Screws not fully seated

Question 9

If the screw holes are stripped, what options are available?

Answer 9

Longer screws, longer HA screws, flip the implant