Navigation and Robotic Single-Position Prone LLIF: First Cases in Brazil

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Orthopedic Surgery
• Medical Technology

Background:

• Technological advancements in navigation-guided minimally invasive surgery provide real-time anatomical visualization.
• Minimally invasive spine surgery aims to reduce complications, hospitalization, pain, and recovery time.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the clinical and radiographic outcomes of robotic-assisted versus fluoroscopy-assisted lumbar interbody fusion.
• To compare radiation exposure, operative time, and patient recovery between free-hand and robotic instrumentation.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cohort study of 80 patients undergoing L4-L5 lumbar interbody fusion.
• Comparison of 40 patients assisted by fluoroscopy versus 40 assisted by robotics.
• Analysis of radiation exposure, operative time, pain, disability, and complications.

Main Results:

• Robotic assistance demonstrated statistically significant reductions in radiation exposure per screw and surgical time.
• No significant differences were noted in patient-reported outcomes or complication rates between the groups.
• The Cirq Robotic system showed promising results in this initial cohort.

Conclusions:

• Minimally invasive spine surgery with robotic assistance offers advantages in radiation safety and efficiency.
• Robotic instrumentation may be a beneficial adjunct for lumbar interbody fusion procedures.
• Further research is warranted to explore the long-term benefits of robotic assistance in spine surgery.