Disruptive technologies in spine surgery: current trends, outcomes, and ethical implications

Area of Science:

• Spine Surgery Innovations
• Medical Technology Integration
• Surgical Advancement

Background:

• Spine surgery is being transformed by disruptive technologies.
• These innovations aim to enhance surgical precision, patient outcomes, and training.
• Key technologies include AR, VR, patient-specific implants, endoscopy, navigation, and robotics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the integration and impact of emerging technologies in spine surgery.
• To explore preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative applications.
• To discuss clinical outcomes, challenges, and ethical considerations.

Main Methods:

• This narrative review synthesizes current literature on technological advancements in spine surgery.
• It examines applications in training, planning, and surgical execution.
• Focus is placed on AR, VR, patient-specific implants, endoscopy, navigation, and robotics.

Main Results:

• Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) improve surgical training and planning accuracy.
• Patient-specific implants and 3D printing allow for tailored anatomical solutions.
• Minimally invasive techniques (endoscopic, robot-assisted) and neuronavigation enhance procedures and reduce radiation.

Conclusions:

• Emerging technologies offer significant potential to improve spine surgery.
• Challenges include high costs, accessibility, and the need for validation and standardization.
• Equitable implementation and standardized training are crucial for widespread adoption.