Our Summary

This research paper is an analysis of the effectiveness of different robotic systems used in spinal surgeries. The authors reviewed 46 studies involving 4 different robotic systems (Mazor X, ROSA, ExcelsiusGPS, and Cirq), and compared their performance in terms of accuracy, speed, safety, operative time, blood loss, and radiation exposure.

The results showed that all four systems were highly accurate in placing screws in the spine, with ExcelsiusGPS, ROSA, and Mazor performing significantly better than traditional methods. However, there was no significant difference in accuracy between the four robots. The robots also had low rates of needing to revise the operation or perform a second operation, with Cirq and ExcelsiusGPS having the lowest rates. The operative times were similar for all robots, but ExcelsiusGPS and Mazor resulted in significantly less blood loss than ROSA. Cirq had the lowest radiation exposure.

In conclusion, the authors found that all four robotic systems performed well and were typically more accurate, safer, and resulted in less blood loss than traditional surgical methods. The best choice of robot will depend on the specific context and needs of the practice. The authors also believe that the use of robots in spinal surgeries will continue to grow.

FAQs

  1. What were the four robotic systems evaluated in the study for spinal surgeries?
  2. How did the robotic systems compare in terms of accuracy, safety, and operative times?
  3. Which robotic system had the lowest radiation exposure and blood loss?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient undergoing spinal fusion surgery to follow all post-operative instructions carefully, including proper lifting techniques, maintaining good posture, and participating in physical therapy as prescribed. It is important to take care of your spine and avoid activities that could put strain on the area that was operated on. Additionally, it is important to attend follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress and address any concerns.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended spinal fusion are those who have conditions such as severe back pain, degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, scoliosis, spinal fractures, and herniated discs that have not responded to non-surgical treatments. These patients may have tried physical therapy, medications, injections, or other conservative treatments without success. Additionally, patients who have instability in the spine or have had previous spinal surgeries that have not been successful may also be recommended for spinal fusion.

Overall, spinal fusion is considered a major surgery and is typically recommended for patients who have exhausted all other treatment options and continue to experience severe pain and functional limitations due to their spinal condition. The use of robotic systems in spinal surgeries, as discussed in the research paper, can provide improved accuracy, safety, and outcomes for patients undergoing spinal fusion procedures.

Timeline

Before spinal fusion, a patient typically experiences chronic back pain, limited mobility, and possibly nerve pain or numbness in the legs. They may have tried conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medications, or injections with little to no relief. After deciding to undergo spinal fusion surgery, the patient will undergo preoperative testing, meet with their surgical team, and prepare for the procedure.

After spinal fusion surgery, the patient will spend several days in the hospital for recovery and monitoring. They will gradually begin physical therapy to regain strength and mobility in their back and legs. Pain management will be a key focus during this time, as the patient may experience some discomfort as their body heals. Over the following weeks and months, the patient will continue physical therapy and follow-up appointments with their surgical team to monitor their progress and ensure proper healing. Eventually, the patient should experience relief from their preoperative symptoms and improved function in their back and legs.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about spinal fusion surgery could include:

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with spinal fusion surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery period after spinal fusion surgery, and what can I expect in terms of pain and mobility?
  3. Will I need physical therapy or rehabilitation after the surgery, and how long will it take to fully recover?
  4. How successful is spinal fusion surgery in relieving pain and improving function in the long term?
  5. Are there any alternative treatments to spinal fusion surgery that I should consider?
  6. What type of robotic system will be used in my spinal fusion surgery, and how does it compare to traditional surgical methods in terms of accuracy and safety?
  7. How experienced is the surgical team in using the robotic system for spinal surgeries?
  8. What is the expected outcome of the surgery, and what are the chances of needing additional surgeries in the future?
  9. Will I need to make any lifestyle changes or modifications after the surgery to support my recovery?
  10. Are there any specific post-operative care instructions or restrictions that I should follow to ensure a successful outcome?

Reference

Authors: MacLean L, Hersh AM, Bhimreddy M, Jiang K, Davidar AD, Weber-Levine C, Alomari S, Judy BF, Lubelski D, Theodore N. Journal: J Neurosurg Spine. 2024 Jul 5;41(4):519-531. doi: 10.3171/2024.4.SPINE23917. Print 2024 Oct 1. PMID: 38968628