Do you suffer from chronic, debilitating back pain, stiffness, aching, numbness or tingling? Is the pain so bad that you can't work, enjoy time with friends and family or participate in activities you love?
Maybe you've tried rest, medications, lifestyle modification and physical therapy but still haven't found the relief you need. If so, your surgeon may recommend spine fusion surgery that joins two or more vertebrae to stabilize your back. You could also be a candidate for robotic spine surgery at HonorHealth John C. Lincoln Medical Center.
"Our spine robot represents state-of-the-art technology for the treatment of spine and complex orthopedic conditions," said Louis Rappoport, MD, an orthopedic surgeon and independent member of the HonorHealth Medical Staff.
The latest technological advances work hand-in-hand with a spine surgeon's expertise for a safer, more accurate procedure. The equipment uses 3D imaging to help your surgeon precisely map out the procedure. The surgeon then uses this plan, along with real-time imaging, to guide a robotic arm to place screws and other implants in your spine. The surgical team monitors the instruments and implants on a screen throughout the procedure.
Several benefits
Dr. Rappaport said that for the right candidate, robotic spine fusion surgery can offer such benefits as:
- More precision because the spine surgeon is guided by real-time imagery
- Improved workflow for the surgical team
- A shorter surgery, meaning you spend less time under general anesthesia
- A less invasive procedure using smaller incisions than traditional spine fusion surgery
- Increased accuracy
- Reduced pain
- A shorter hospital stay
- Fewer complications
- Less recovery time
And, there's no added cost for robotic spine surgical procedures (when compared to traditional spine procedures) for HonorHealth patients or their insurance companies.