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a. Laminectomy

• Indications: Spinal stenosis or herniated disc compressing the spinal cord or nerves.
• Procedure:
1. The lamina (posterior vertebral arch) is removed to relieve pressure.
2. Soft tissue decompression is performed as needed.
• Orthopaedic Technologist Responsibilities:
o Ensure microsurgical instruments are available.
o Assist in positioning the patient prone on the surgical table.

b. Spinal Fusion

• Indications: Degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis, or vertebral instability.
• Procedure:
1. Bone grafts or cages are placed between vertebrae to promote fusion.
2. Screws and rods are implanted to stabilize the spine.
• Technologist Responsibilities:
o Provide bone grafting materials and fusion implants.
o Assist in alignment verification using intraoperative imaging.
• Laminectomy:
o Removal of part of the vertebra to relieve spinal cord pressure.
• Spinal Fusion:
o Fusing two or more vertebrae using rods and screws to stabilize the spine.

Handling Orthopaedic Surgical Instruments

Orthopaedic surgical instruments are specialized tools designed to manipulate bones, joints, and
soft tissues during surgery. Proper handling of these instruments is critical to ensuring surgical
efficiency, maintaining sterility, and preventing complications. Orthopaedic technologists must
be well-versed in instrument identification, functionality, and best practices for handling,
cleaning, and storage.

1. Common Instruments Used in Orthopaedic Surgery

Orthopaedic surgical instruments can be categorized based on their function. Each category
contains tools designed for specific surgical tasks, from bone cutting to fixation.

a. Cutting and Shaping Instruments

• Bone Saws: Used in procedures such as joint replacements to cut through bone efficiently.
• Osteotomes and Chisels: Used to shape or remove bone in controlled amounts.
• Rongeurs: Double-action instruments used to bite away small bone fragments or soft tissue.
• Curettes: Used for scooping out soft tissue, cartilage, or bone from confined areas.