Vascular pedicle rib graft in anterior transthoracic fusion procedures - Technical note

A method is described in which anterior fusion of the thoracic vertebral co lumn is performed using a rib strut graft maintained on its vascular pedicl e. This straightforward technique is useful in selected patients undergoing anterior thoracic fusion procedures and can be used in conjunction with ot her anterior spinal implants. By maintaining bone graft blood supply, this technique promotes an optimum fusion environment, which may enhance the spe ed of graft incorporation and the ultimate strength of the construct.