New York Spine Institute Spine Services

How Robotics Is Making Spine Surgery Safer

How Robotics Is Making Spine Surgery Safer

How Robotics Is Making Spine Surgery Safer

By: Timothy T. Roberts, M.D. FAAOS

Dr. Roberts earned his Doctorate of Medicine from Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston, Massachusetts. He completed his orthopedic residency at Albany Medical College. Dr. Roberts then went on to complete the neurosurgery/orthopaedic spine surgery-combined fellowship at the prestigious Cleveland Clinic. Following graduation, Dr. Roberts worked for several years in a large private practice in Florida, but has since returned to his native New York.

Robotic spine surgery has transformed and elevated how spinal experts treat common conditions. This cutting-edge technology enables surgeons to perform procedures more safely and effectively, improving nearly every aspect of the surgical experience for their patients.

With robotics, the surgical team can streamline workflows and deliver the most individualized solutions possible. Explore how robotics makes spine surgery safer, faster and more effective below.

How Robotic Spine Surgery Works

Advanced robotic tools can perform minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) involving the smallest incisions and least disruptive processes. Surgeons use them to complete various medical procedures, including:

  • Discectomy
  • Spinal decompression
  • Placing rods and screws
  • Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion

Before surgery, surgeons utilize advanced X-ray imaging systems to establish detailed scans of the patient’s body and spine. Paired with a cutting-edge GPS system, these images will guide the robotic arm during surgery.

The surgeon controls the robotic instruments, using them to enhance and support their skills. These tools provide real-time guidance and feedback to help the surgeon navigate the surgery with a higher level of accuracy and precision. 

What Conditions Can Benefit From Robotic Spine Surgery?

Surgeons can use robotic spine surgery technology to treat a wide range of spinal conditions, including:

  • Degenerative discs
  • Herniated discs 
  • Spinal tumors
  • Fractures
  • Lumbar spinal stenosis
  • Scoliosis
  • Kyphosis

What Are the Benefits of Robotic Spine Surgery?

Medical professionals are increasingly using robotic spine surgery because of this state-of-the-art technology’s robust advantages. It can improve patient experiences and ease the strain on medical personnel, enabling better overall care. 

Explore how robotics are making spine surgery safer and more effective below.

Precision and Accuracy

A top advantage of robotic spine surgery is its unparalleled precision. These advanced systems are programmed to the patient’s unique anatomy and support optimal accuracy throughout the procedure. Enhanced precision can lead to improved patient safety and a reduced risk of complications post-surgery. 

Minimally Invasive Approach

Minimally Invasive Approach

Leveraging robotics enables surgeons to take a minimally invasive approach to spine surgeries. The advanced imaging and navigation capabilities allow for smaller incisions than traditional surgical methods. Smaller incisions can reduce blood loss, lower the risk of infection, minimize tissue damage and support speedier recovery times.

Robotic spine surgery provides an overall less disruptive and intensive surgical experience for patients. 

More Efficient Surgeries

Surgeons can complete spine surgeries faster and more efficiently with advanced robotic instruments. They streamline the process, helping medical professionals save time and facilitate smoother, safer surgical processes. Faster surgeries can result in shorter hospital stays and a better post-operative recovery experience. 

Advanced Visualizations and GPS Technology

The advanced visualizations used in robotic spine surgeries provide doctors with more extensive and accurate insights into their patients’ anatomies, allowing for unprecedented detail and exactness. Medical GPS technology supports the careful and effective navigation of complex spinal structures to improve surgery quality. 

Reduced Radiation Exposure

Robotic spine surgery also reduces radiation exposure for surgical staff and patients. Medical practitioners can utilize preoperative imaging for precise surgery planning, reducing the length of fluoroscopy time during the procedure. 

Minimizing exposure reduces the risks of radiation-related complications, such as potential tissue damage. Reduced radiation is especially advantageous for individuals who may require extensive imaging throughout their lifetime. 

Improved Patient Outcomes

The personalization and precision of robotic spine surgery are key to improving patient outcomes. These technologies allow for more accurate surgery processes, such as screw and implant placement, supporting better post-operative stability and recovery. 

Patients can enjoy a reduced risk of complications and better long-term outcomes, including improved function and better quality of life post-surgery. 

Reduced Post-Operative Pain

Since robotic spine surgery is minimally invasive and highly accurate, patients often enjoy reduced post-operative pain. The smaller incision is less disruptive to bodily tissue, decreasing the trauma to surrounding nerves and muscles. Compared to traditional surgical procedures, advanced robotic solutions promote a more comfortable recovery process for patients with a lower risk of complications like infections and blood loss. 

Faster Recovery

Along with less post-operative pain, robotic spine surgery supports faster recovery than conventional surgeries. Patients often experience fewer complications and shorter hospital stays, allowing them to return to their normal lives sooner and reducing the impact of the procedure on their daily activities. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Robotic Spine Surgery

Below are some commonly asked questions regarding surgeries involving advanced robotics:

Is Robotic Spine Surgery Safe?

Robotic spine surgery is generally safe and effective, especially compared to conventional methods. Ensure you choose a qualified, experienced surgeon to ensure the highest quality of care during and after the procedure. 

How Accurate Is Robotic Spine Surgery?

Robotic spine surgery is known for its high level of precision. The advanced imaging tools offer more detailed insight into the patient’s unique anatomy. They inform and correct the surgical technique as the surgeon works, supporting increased accuracy and surgical outcomes. 

Do Surgeons Prefer Robotic Spine Surgery?

While the best surgical method will depend on the patient’s unique condition and circumstances, many surgeons today prefer a robotic approach rather than traditional surgery. 

What Is the Recovery Time for Robotic Spine Surgery?

The average recovery time for patients who undergo robotic spine surgery is six weeks, though this time can fluctuate depending on their specific surgical needs and condition. Compared to traditional surgeries, a robotic approach can reduce recovery times and expedite the return to normal activities.

Why Trust Us?

The New York Spine Institute has the top spinal and orthopedic experts in New York, and we are one of the largest multi-specialty spine centers in the tri-state area. Our specialized divisions include:

  • Diagnostics
  • Orthopedic spine
  • Neurosurgery
  • Scoliosis
  • Orthopedics
  • Pain management
  • Physical therapy

You can trust us for top-quality care tailored to your unique needs. We provide long-lasting health solutions to improve how you feel and live. 

If you require surgery, our expert surgeons are well-versed in robotic technologies to support accuracy and ensure you get the best treatment possible for your specific condition. 

We utilize Globus robotic spine surgery technology. Globus Medical is an industry-leading medical device manufacturer, and our surgeons leverage their tools to streamline the process, enhancing precision and efficiency while minimizing patient risk. 

Schedule an Appointment at the New York Spine Institute

At the New York Spine Institute, our years of expertise with different spine and back conditions enable us to take the most integrated approach to patient care. Our spine division works with your primary medical provider to create a tailored plan for your medical care. Our in-house physical therapists and pain management physicians are here to help you find relief and improve your quality of life. If you need surgical intervention, you can rely on our world-class orthopedic spine specialists.

Are you interested in learning more about how New York Spine Institute can help? Find an office location near you and schedule an appointment online now. 

Schedule an Appointment at the New York Spine Institute