Concept of Digital Spine OT - Evolution of Advanced Spine Surgery in India

Spine surgery in India has undergone a remarkable transformation, with significant advancements in techniques and technologies. From traditional open surgeries to minimally invasive procedures, the field has evolved to prioritize patient comfort, recovery time, and overall outcomes. A key development in this journey has been the establishment of digital spine operation theaters (OTs). These state-of-the-art facilities leverage cutting-edge technology to enhance surgical precision, safety, and efficiency.

This blog explore into the evolution of spine surgery techniques in India and how it is becoming a boon for patients looking for minimally invasive procedures with better precision and accuracy in spinal surgery with better outcomes.

What is Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MISS)?

Minimally invasive spine surgery is performed through small incisions using specialized instruments and endoscope. Because the incision size is small and less tissues are exposed, MISS allows for quick recovery time and less damage to the surroundings. The use of special equipment also allows the surgeons to achieve the objective of the surgery while ensuring accuracy and great precision.

Difference between MIS and Open surgery

What is the concept of Digital Spine Surgery OT?

Digital spine surgery refers to the use of modern digital technologies to enhance the precision, planning, and execution of spine surgeries. It integrates robotic assistance, navigation systems, AI-driven insights, and real-time imaging to guide surgeons through procedures with more accuracy than ever before. An operation theater which is equipped with all these modern facilities is called a digital OT.

This digital approach minimizes human error, improves visualization, and enables surgeons to plan and execute complex surgeries with more confidence, especially when working with delicate structures like the spinal cord and nerves.

Artemis Hospital in Gurugram, India, has been the first hospital in the country to conceptualize a digital OT and execute the program meticulously. The team of neurosurgeons, led by the renowned Dr. SK Rajan, has been involved in the commissioning and successful operations of a digital spine OT at Artemis Hospital. The team boasts of maintaining a success rate of almost 99% in spine surgeries and have successfully completed more than 5000 MISS in the same setting.

Key Technologies in Digital Spine Surgery

Several groundbreaking technologies are powering the digital spine surgery revolution. Some of them include the following:

Robotic-Assisted Surgery

Robotic systems, such as the Mazor X and Renaissance, provide assistance during spine surgeries by guiding surgeons with precision. These systems allow surgeons to map out surgical paths in advance and execute them with millimeter accuracy.

3D Imaging and Navigation

Advanced imaging technologies like intraoperative CT and 3D fluoroscopy give surgeons a real-time, 3D view of the patient’s anatomy during surgery. These imaging tools help surgeons visualize the spine from multiple angles, leading to better decision-making during the procedure.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

AI algorithms are increasingly being used in spine surgery for predictive analytics, preoperative planning, and post-operative care. AI can analyse complex patient data, including imaging, medical history, and surgical outcomes, to recommend optimal surgical strategies, identify risk factors, and even predict recovery times.

Augmented Reality (AR)

AR allows surgeons to visualize patient anatomy by overlaying digital images onto the physical world during surgery. With AR glasses or screens, surgeons can see a real-time augmented version of the spine, highlighting critical structures like nerves and blood vessels. This enhances surgical precision, reduces the chances of mistakes, and improves outcomes.

Benefits of Digital Spine Surgery

The integration of digital technologies into spine surgery has numerous benefits for both patients and surgeons

Enhanced Precision

The use of robotic assistance and advanced imaging tools ensures that surgeries are performed with millimetre-level precision, minimizing the risk of complications such as nerve damage or improper implant placement.

Minimally Invasive Procedures

Many digital spine surgeries are performed using minimally invasive techniques, resulting in smaller incisions, less tissue damage, reduced pain, and faster recovery times. These techniques are particularly beneficial for patients with complex spinal issues, as they can reduce the overall trauma associated with traditional open surgery.

Reduced Surgical Time

Preoperative planning using digital tools allows surgeons to plan their procedures down to the finest detail. This can significantly reduce operating time, as surgeons can execute the surgery more efficiently with the help of robots and navigation systems.

Improved Patient Outcomes

Patients undergoing digital spine surgery often experience faster recovery times, reduced pain, and lower complication rates. The high level of accuracy in implant placement and minimal tissue damage during surgery leads to more stable outcomes and faster return to daily activities.

Final Outcome

Spine surgery is a complex procedure that can provide significant relief for individuals suffering from various spinal conditions. The choice between open surgery and minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) depends on factors such as the severity of the condition, patient preferences, and surgeon expertise. While open surgery has traditionally been the standard approach, MIS techniques have gained popularity due to their potential benefits, including smaller incisions, reduced pain, and faster recovery times. However, complex cases may still require open surgery.