The field of spine and orthopedic care has transformed in recent years thanks to the advent of new technologies that have enhanced the precision and safety of surgical procedures. From minimally invasive surgeries to sophisticated and intricate imaging, our surgeons at DISC are increasingly leveraging cutting-edge tools that are reshaping how we approach spine care and the care our patients receive.
Virtual Tour: One of DISC's High-Tech Surgery Centers
Orthopedic and Spinal Navigation
Surgical navigation is the practice of using advanced tracking and imaging technology to help surgeons place instruments and visualize the patient’s anatomy in three dimensions. Although impactful to almost every type of surgery, surgical navigation has revolutionized orthopedic and spine surgery in particular.
The standout example of spinal navigation in the OR is the NuVasive Pulse platform, an advanced image navigation platform that uses a 3D stereoscopic camera to create a detailed map of the patient’s anatomy in real-time, offering surgeons a view of what lies beneath the skin, tissue, and bone.
Technologies like the NuVasive Pulse platform allow surgeons to use minimally invasive techniques to achieve superior outcomes with faster recovery times in comparison to traditional spinal surgery. The Pulse platform allows surgeons to obtain a scan while the patient is in the operating room, and navigate instruments such as screw placement devices and implants in real-time. Surgeons can view the anatomy on a screen, confirming what they expect to see or revealing areas that were previously obscured by small incisions.
“This navigation platform is truly excellent and truly special compared to others in the ability to marry those two excellent technologies for a surgery,” said Dr. Joel S. Beckett.
Surgical Optic Technology for Spine Surgery
Even with the advancements in surgical navigation technologies, sometimes our specialists need to increase their visualization further. For that, they have the Zeiss surgical microscope, which offers exceptional magnification and light. The entire machine is controlled by a gyroscope, and can move with just the gentle touch of a finger, which allows our surgeons to clearly visualize microscopic millimeter-sized anatomy. Combining the NuVasive Pulse platform and the Zeiss surgical microscope allows DISC surgeons to provide the most precise, accurate and advanced approach to spinal surgery.
Robotics for Orthopedic Surgery
Robotics is another technology that is changing the game in orthopedic and spine care, especially with joint replacements. In robotic-assisted hip and knee replacement surgeries, the surgeon uses the tool to execute an accurate and precise surgery and enables them to personalize the approach to each individualized patient and their unique anatomy.
Video: Robotic Knee Replacement Performed by Dr. James B. Chen
In addition to robotics during surgery, there are also artificial intelligence (AI) technologies that are being used in the pre- and post-operative setting. Virtual care assistants provide patients with personalized exercise routines, educational material, and direct communication with their care teams. Postoperatively, these systems can monitor a patient’s progress by using AI algorithms to track recovery data and predict outcomes. The application can monitor objective data, and DISC surgeons like Dr. James B. Chen are building AI algorithms to monitor patients further and help provide predictions for how patients are going to progress with their healing after surgery. This technology is making it possible for surgeons to stay connected with patients remotely, ensuring continuous care and giving our care team the opportunity to make quick adjustments in the treatment plan when necessary.
With the introduction and advancement of robotics, navigation systems and virtual care, DISC specialists are able to perform more precise, minimally invasive surgeries, and provide more personalized care and improved outcomes for our patients, including enhanced safety and quicker recovery times. Schedule a consultation with one of DISC's specialists today.
