Most spine fusion surgeries require spinal instrumentation (screws and rods) to be placed into the spine to provide stabilization and promote fusion of the bones together, often using a bone graft to enhance the fusion process. Navigated spinal fusion involves using a “navigation system” to assist the Dallas navigated spinal fusion specialist in the minimally invasive surgery.
Spinal navigation technology can be compared to a car’s GPS; it helps guide directions to a destination in real time. During the lumbar pedicle screw fixation placement, it is important to make sure the implants are going through the intended path especially in procedures involving the lumbar spine and when planning a posterior lumbar fusion, such as transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF).
Computer-assisted pedicle screw navigation technology provides visualization in real time exactly where the implants are going using advanced image guidance during the spinal fusion procedure. This surgical technique improves accuracy of pedicle screw insertions and allows for safer, more accurate instrumentation of the spine, stabilizing two or more vertebrae to restore function and improve spinal health. It can also support surgical efficiency by reducing the need for repeated intraoperative imaging, including reliance on intraoperative fluoroscopy, which may help limit surgeon radiation exposure and patient radiation exposure in appropriate cases, minimizing complications such as blood loss and damage to nerves or the spinal cord
How the Computer-Assisted Navigation Technology Works
Once the patient is asleep, a 3D scan of the spine is performed using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which helps identify spinal conditions and symptoms such as herniated discs and spinal stenosis. In some systems, CT scans may also be utilized to generate detailed three-dimensional imaging from different angles. The patient’s anatomy images are then registered into the navigation system. The tools and implants, including plates and screws, used during the minimally invasive spinal surgery have special trackers on them that allow visualization real time where the implants are in relation to the spine. This computer-assisted spine surgery ensures safe and proper placement of the spinal implants. This approach can be used in a range of spinal procedures, including complex cases such as adult spinal deformity, scoliosis, kyphosis, and spondylolisthesis, as well as select spinal fusion procedures involving cervical pedicle screws in the cervical spine.
Benefits of Navigated Spinal Fusion Procedure
Safe, accurate, and computer-assisted placement of hardware
By being able to see the lumbar pedicle screw placement in real-time, the Dallas navigated spinal fusion surgeon can perform pedicle screw insertion precisely where it is intended to go during spinal fusion surgery. This added visualization can be especially helpful when working around delicate anatomy in the patient’s spine, including in situations where spinal stabilization is performed alongside tumor removal and where accurate implant placement is especially important.
Ability to perform a minimally invasive spine surgery
Navigated spinal surgery allows the Dallas navigated spinal fusion doctor to place the hardware through small, muscle-sparing incisions. This minimally invasive spine surgery limits tissue trauma and promotes a faster recovery. In some cases, navigation may also be helpful during revision surgery. This can include evaluating a prior screw and planning a pedicle screw revision when needed, while monitoring intraoperative radiation doses as part of standard safety protocols in orthopaedic surgery.
Contact Dallas Navigated Spinal Fusion Surgeon Michael Wheeler, MD Today
Dr. Wheeler uses computer-assisted spinal surgery with a specialized imaging system to guide screw placement and implant placement during spinal procedures, providing personalized care to alleviate symptoms related to back pain and spine deformities. This technology provides real-time visualization and may support surgical outcomes in appropriately selected patients, including those undergoing deformity correction and other indications requiring advanced solutions.
In some cases, computer-assisted spine surgery reduces the need for repeated imaging during the operation, which can assist in reducing radiation exposure for both the patient and surgical team. Careful planning and accurate hardware positioning at the surgical site are also important considerations that may impact recovery, including postoperative pain caused by the procedure.
Whether you need a spinal fusion, cervical disk replacement, or laminectomy, reach out to Dr. Wheeler, one of the best spine doctors in Dallas, for consultation and questions about the surgical procedure.
