Breakthroughs in imaging, minimally invasive surgery, implant technology, robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) are revolutionizing spine surgery. Over the past several decades, spine surgery has greatly benefited from advances in technology to become safer, more effective and “smaller” than ever. Improvements in spinal implants, enhanced accuracy of spinal implant placement with computer navigation and robotics, and artificial intelligence have helped surgeons create surgical plans that are specific and unique to each patient. Today, a herniated disc in the lower spine can be removed with an incision that’s smaller than one inch—even if the disc to be removed is larger than the incision!
Surgeons are harnessing these technologies to perform smaller, often minimally invasive operations to treat a variety of conditions, including degenerative spinal disorders and spinal deformities, while also making it easier for a broader range of patients to access surgical solutions. What does this mean for patients? Often this means smaller surgeries, faster recovery times and superior treatment of symptoms so that patients can get back to doing the things they love with less pain and disability.
Precision Imaging for Precision Results
Leading-edge surgical imaging technology is facilitating more accurate and safer spinal surgeries and allows many surgeries to be performed using minimally invasive approaches. For instance, pioneering computer navigation software helps surgeons to precisely localize spinal implant placement in real-time, which makes these procedures safer for the patient.
Augmented and virtual reality imaging are also entering operating rooms. As this technology improves, surgeons will be able to see 3D representations of the spine in real-time while operating, reducing radiation exposure and increasing precision.
Robotics to the Rescue
Robotic arms are increasingly used in both open and minimally invasive procedures to treat spinal conditions. Not all minimally invasive spine surgeries are robotic, but if you need surgery involving spinal hardware placement, a surgeon-operated robotic arm could help. Improved accuracy and efficiency lead to better patient outcomes and fewer complications after surgery. Robotic minimally invasive spine surgeries can treat many common problems, such as degenerative disc disease and instability in the spine.
Improved Patient Care With AI
Although artificial intelligence is relatively new on the surgical scene, it is already contributing to advanced spinal care and improved outcomes. For instance, surgeons are currently using AI to create patient-specific spinal implants, customized to the exact specifications of the patient. In the near future, AI will also be used to analyze extensive patient data on the severity of symptoms and preoperative imaging findings in conditions such as spinal stenosis and cervical myelopathy. This analysis will aid in surgical recommendations, predicting recovery outcomes and shared decision-making with patients. Leveraging AI will be an important part of creating personalized treatment plans that align with the patient’s goals so they can better decide whether to have surgery or which procedure to get.
Surgical Training Matters
Maybe one day, far in the future, there could be actual robot surgeons in the OR. For now, and for many years to come, human surgeons operate the robotic arms. Human surgeons are also required to verify the implications and recommendations of computer navigation and AI. Surgeons at the University of Maryland Medical System are teaching these new technologies to the next generation of surgeons along with the conventional approaches to provide well-rounded training.
Look for board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons and neurosurgeons, such as the ones on staff in the University of Maryland Spine Network. Our surgeons have a complete understanding of spinal anatomy and pathology and know how and when to use advanced technologies to provide patients with superior outcomes. We are revolutionizing spine surgery and have the results to prove it.
Listen to a Podcast
Discover the cutting-edge advancements in spine surgery through an insightful conversation with spine surgeon Timothy Chryssikos, MD, as we explore the role of AI and robotics in shaping the future of this field. Listen to the podcast below or download it on our website.
More to Read
- Minimally Invasive Surgery for Back Pain
- What You Need to Know About Degenerative Spine Conditions
- Robotic-Assisted Surgery for Joint Replacements
- Is Minimally Invasive Back Surgery Right for You?
Medically reviewed by Timothy James Chryssikos, MD, PhD. Photos courtesy Dr. Chryssikos.
