Robotics in Spine Surgery: Uses in Development

In an effort to both improve accuracy of pedicle screw placement and limit soft tissue disruption, robotic guidance systems have emerged as an attractive alternative to freehand and navigated techniques. Especially effective in the setting of revision surgery with distorted anatomic landmarks or severe deformity, robotic guidance allows for safe and accurate placement of implants, as well as additional uses based on trajectories that planning with a robotic system affords. Additionally, minimally invasive techniques can be achieved with the robotic guidance systems in use today. Further advancements in technology are occurring rapidly, and the full potential of robotics in surgery is yet to be achieved.