Implementation of a three-dimensional (3D) robotic digital microscope (AEOS) in spinal procedures.

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Surgical Technology
• Spinal Surgery

Background:

• Traditional operative microscopes have limitations in certain surgical scenarios.
• Three-dimensional (3D) exoscopes have been developed to address these insufficiencies.
• Clinical evaluation of 3D exoscopes in diverse spinal procedures is necessary.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the clinical utility and feasibility of a 3D exoscope in various spinal surgeries.
• To assess surgeon feedback on intraoperative handling, image quality, and overall performance.
• To evaluate the impact of 3D exoscope implementation on surgical corridors.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study involving 17 patients undergoing spinal surgery over 4 weeks.
• The Aesculap AEOS 3D exoscope was used for microsurgical aspects.
• Surgeon feedback was collected via a 43-item questionnaire assessing intraoperative handling and feasibility.

Main Results:

• Image resolution, sharpness, and 3D depth perception were satisfactory for all surgeons.
• 76.5% of surgeons found the exoscopic arm easy to utilize.
• All surgeons reported a significant improvement in the surgical corridor.
• Setup conflicts arose with monitor positioning and additional equipment (e.g., fluoroscopy).

Conclusions:

• The 3D exoscope demonstrates very satisfactory results in spinal procedures.
• Implementation is particularly beneficial for minimally invasive spinal approaches.
• While minor setup challenges exist, the benefits in visualization and surgical access are significant.