MMG vs. EMG for Cortical Breach Detection

Inclusion Criteria: * scheduled to undergo a one-, two-, or three-level posterolateral spinal fusion surgery using Depuy Synthes Expedium pedicle screw instrumentation. * over the age of 18 years old * unresponsive to conservative care for a minimum of 6 months * psychosocially, mentally, and physically able to fully consent and comply with this protocol Exclusion Criteria: * preexisting medical condition or comorbidity that makes them a poor candidate * open wound local to the operative area, or rapid joint disease, bone absorption, or osteoporosis * requires medications that may interfere with bone or soft tissue healing * active local or systemic infection * metal sensitivity/foreign body sensitivity * implanted pacemaker * morbidly obese, defined as a body mass index (BMI) greater than 45 * osteoporosis * involved in or planning to engage in litigation or receiving Workers Compensation related to neck or back pain.