The device used to achieve vertebral fixation is usually a permanent rigid or semi-rigid prosthesis made of titanium; examples include rods, plates, screws, and various combinations thereof.
In recent years/decades spinal surgeons have begun to rely more heavily on mechanical implants, which provide increased stability without so severely limiting the recipient's range of motion.
A number of devices have been developed that allow the recipients near natural range of motion while still providing some support.
In many cases the support offered by such devices is insufficient, leaving the physician with few other choices than spinal fusion.
A spinal fixation device stabilizes an area of the posterior spine while allowing for a significant range of motion and limiting the compression of the affected vertebrae.