Robotic Lumbar Fusion

Robotic lumbar spinal fusion involves the use of robotic-assisted navigation technology to guide the surgeon in placing screws, rods, and bone grafts in the spine with high accuracy. The robotic system provides a real-time 3D visualization of the patient’s spine, allowing Dr. Cyriac to create a customized surgical plan and execute it with unparalleled precision.

The procedure begins with preoperative imaging, typically a CT scan, which is integrated into the robotic system to generate a 3D model of the patient’s spine. During surgery, the robotic arm assists in the accurate placement of spinal implants, minimizing disruption to surrounding muscles and tissues. The minimally invasive approach of robotic lumbar fusion offers significant advantages over traditional open fusion, including smaller incisions, reduced blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times.

Robotic lumbar spinal fusion is recommended for patients with conditions that cause instability or pain in the lower spine and have not responded to conservative treatments. Some of the most common indications for the procedure include:

• Degenerative disc disease: The breakdown of intervertebral discs can lead to chronic pain and instability, which may require fusion to restore spinal support.
• Spondylolisthesis: This condition occurs when one vertebra slips forward over the one below it, leading to nerve compression and lower back pain.
• Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, causing pain, numbness, and weakness in the lower extremities.
• Herniated discs: In some cases, severe or recurrent disc herniation may require spinal fusion to stabilize the affected segment.
• Spinal fractures: Traumatic injuries can cause instability in the lumbar spine, necessitating fusion to restore structural integrity.
• Failed back surgery syndrome: Patients who have undergone previous spinal surgeries without success may benefit from robotic lumbar fusion as a revision procedure.
• Scoliosis: When the spine curves abnormally to the side, forming a “C” or “S” shape when viewed from the back. Severe cases can lead to back pain, uneven shoulders or hips, and, in some cases, difficulty breathing.

While robotic lumbar spinal fusion is an effective treatment for various spinal conditions, not all patients are ideal candidates. A good candidate typically meets the following criteria:

• Chronic, debilitating lower back pain that has not improved with conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medications, and injections.
• Evidence of spinal instability or significant structural issues that can be corrected with fusion.
• Good overall health with no uncontrolled medical conditions that could increase surgical risks.
• No active infections or severe osteoporosis that could compromise the success of the procedure.
• Realistic expectations about the potential benefits and limitations of spinal fusion.