Robotic spine surgery - Surgical technique and nuances for improving safety

The integration of robotic technology into spinal surgery has led to a remarkable transformation, offering improved precision and safety. The "CT-Fluoro merge" and "Scan-and-Plan" methods for pedicle screw application promise numerous advantages, minimizing risks associated with traditional approaches. Our early series of patients who underwent robot-assisted pedicle screw placements for various indications, predominantly lumbar spondylosis, revealed no complications related to screws, neurological deficits, or unplanned returns to the operating theatre, thus emphasizing the safety and effectiveness of the robot. Studies have consistently demonstrated the superiority of robot-assisted pedicle screw placement in terms of accuracy, with decreasing rates of technical issues indicating improvements in reliability and precision. Our experiences align with these findings, signalling the emergence of robotic spine surgery as the forthcoming standard of care in the field. This short communication explores the steps involved in robotic pedicle screw placement, discusses nuances for improving safety, and emphasizes its benefits and implications for the future of spinal care.