When it comes to intricate spine surgery, every step makes a difference during the procedure. Moving one millimeter out of place might mean a change from successful to unsuccessful surgery. That’s why the groundbreaking robot-assisted spine surgery adds extra precision and clarification during delicate surgery. Spine surgeon Dr. Charla Fischer in New York City is pleased to be a part of this exciting wave of the future.
Robotics combines 3D planning before surgery and navigation assistance during surgery to precisely perform procedures. Placing spinal implants and screws becomes more accurate with this innovative technology. Some common spine surgeries that Dr. Fischer is able to perform using robotics include spinal fusion, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, radiculopathy, tumor removal, and scoliosis.
The first way that robot-assisted spine surgery benefits patients occurs before even being wheeled into the operating room. The surgeon uses 3D imaging and computer analytics to plan the surgery. A CT-based 3D simulation of the patient’s spine is used to help choose the exact screws and other items so that the implantation process goes smoothly. Every angle, length and width that is needed can be visualized beforehand so that there are no surprises during surgery.
Once surgery begins, Dr. Fischer uses a robot arm comprised of several joints to place the required items for the procedure. The exact trajectory needed to perfectly perform tasks is achieved through robotics. Dr. Fischer still maintains complete control of the operation, but the robot technologies improve the surgeon’s skills even more by providing guidance that would be difficult to see with the naked eye.
One of the major advancements in spine surgeries is the ability to perform many procedures using minimally invasive techniques. This provides patients with smaller incisions, less blood loss, reduced pain, shorter hospital stays, and faster recoveries. Smaller incisions can mean a more difficult process for the surgeon, however, due to the limited view of the anatomy. This is where robot-assisted spine surgery really helps because the technology allows increased precision and safety so that the procedure goes off without a hitch.
If you suspect that spine surgery may be in your future, contact Dr. Fischer today to learn more about how robot-assisted technology might benefit you.
Contact our office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Fischer