Thoracic vertebra interbody fusion surgery with robotic assisted system in a swine model

Minimally invasive procedures have been increasing in spine surgery, and interest in robotic systems has inclined. In this study, we aimed to evaluate feasibility of a robotic-assisted thoracic spine interbody fusion in a swine model. Neurosurgeons performed the surgical procedures with robotic surgery certificates on the Da Vinci Xi Surgical System. Surgical approaches were applied using four ports while the swine was in the left lateral position. The surgical procedure was accomplished in 70 min including positioning and preparation of robotic system (20 min), placement of ports and thoracic dissection and confirmation of level with the C-arm system (10 min), discectomy and cage insertion (15 min), control of cage position via the C-arm system and closure (10 min). This study showed the anterior thoracic approach with robotic surgery is safe and feasible with providing a wide working area and high image quality.