Historical Perspectives on the Evolution of Spino-Pelvic Fixation and its Implications on Clinical Care A Narrative Review

Global Spine J. 2025 Jan;15(1):228-240. doi: 10.1177/21925682241283726. Epub 2024 Sep 11.

Abstract

Study design: Broad narrative review.

Objectives: To review and summarize the evolution of spinopelvic fixation (SPF) and its implications on clinical care.

Methods: A thorough review of peer-reviewed literature was performed on the historical evolution of sacropelvic fixation techniques and their respective advantages and disadvantages.

Results: The sacropelvic junction has been a long-standing challenge due to a combination of anatomic idiosyncrasies and very high biomechanical forces. While first approaches of fusion were determinated by many material and surgical technique-related limitations, the modern idea of stabilization of the lumbosacral junction was largely initiated by the inclusion of the ilium into lumbosacral fusion. While there is a wide spectrum of indications for SPF the chosen technique remains is defined by the individual pathology and surgeons' preference.

Conclusion: By a constant evolution of both instrumentation hardware and surgical technique better fusion rates paired with improved clinical results could be achieved.

Keywords: S2AI; fixation; ilium; lumbopelvic; pelvic; sacropelvic.

Publication types

  • Review