Justin D Stull1, John J Mangan2, Alexander R Vaccaro2,3, Gregory D Schroeder2,3. 1. Orthopaedic Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Fifth Floor, 925 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA. Justin.stull@gmail.com. 2. Orthopaedic Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Fifth Floor, 925 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA. 3. The Rothman Institute, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Minimally invasive spine surgery (MIS) and robotic technology are growing in popularity and are increasing utilized in combination. The purpose of this review is to identify the current successes, potential drawbacks, and future directions of robotic guidance for MIS compared to traditional techniques. RECENT FINDINGS: Recent literature highlights successful incorporation of robotic guidance in MIS as a consistently accurate method for pedicle screw placement. With a short learning curve and low complication rates, robot guidance may also reduce the use of fluoroscopy, operative time, and length of hospital stay. Recent literature suggests that incorporating robotic guidance in MIS improves the accuracy of pedicle screw insertion and may have added benefits both intra- and postoperatively for the patient and provider. Future research should focus on direct comparison between MIS with and without robotic guidance.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Minimally invasive spine surgery (MIS) and robotic technology are growing in popularity and are increasing utilized in combination. The purpose of this review is to identify the current successes, potential drawbacks, and future directions of robotic guidance for MIS compared to traditional techniques. RECENT FINDINGS: Recent literature highlights successful incorporation of robotic guidance in MIS as a consistently accurate method for pedicle screw placement. With a short learning curve and low complication rates, robot guidance may also reduce the use of fluoroscopy, operative time, and length of hospital stay. Recent literature suggests that incorporating robotic guidance in MIS improves the accuracy of pedicle screw insertion and may have added benefits both intra- and postoperatively for the patient and provider. Future research should focus on direct comparison between MIS with and without robotic guidance.