Dr Ravi Bhanushali

Services

Services / Dr. Ravi Bhanushali

Navigation Spine Surgery

Navigation spine surgery, also known as computer-assisted or image-guided spine surgery, is an advanced orthopedic service that utilizes computer technology to enhance the precision and accuracy of spinal procedures. This technology allows surgeons to navigate and visualize the spine in real-time during surgery, improving the overall safety and effectiveness of the procedure.

Here’s an overview of navigation spine surgery as an orthopedic service:

Indications for Navigation Spine Surgery:

  • Spinal Fusion: Used in procedures involving the fusion of vertebrae to treat conditions such as degenerative disc disease, scoliosis, or instability.
  • Vertebroplasty and Kyphoplasty: Navigation can assist in the placement of bone cement during these procedures to treat vertebral compression fractures.
  • Tumor Removal: Navigation aids in precise tumor localization and removal during spinal tumor surgeries.
  • Disc Replacement: Used in procedures where an artificial disc is implanted to replace a damaged or degenerated disc.
  • Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery: Navigation technology is particularly beneficial in guiding instruments and implants during minimally invasive spine procedures.

How Navigation Spine Surgery Works:

  • Preoperative Planning: Before surgery, imaging studies such as CT scans or MRI are used to create a three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction of the patient’s spine.
  • Registration: During surgery, the patient’s anatomy is registered or mapped into the navigation system. This involves aligning the preoperative images with the actual anatomy using reference points.
  • Real-Time Navigation: The surgeon uses specialized tools equipped with infrared markers, and these tools are tracked by the navigation system in real-time. The system continuously updates the position of the tools relative to the patient’s spine.
  • Visualization: The surgeon views the patient’s spine on a computer screen, with the navigation system providing real-time feedback on the position of instruments, implants, and anatomical structures.
  • Enhanced Precision: Navigation technology enhances precision during the procedure by providing continuous feedback on the exact location of surgical instruments and implants relative to the planned trajectory.

Expected Outcomes:

  • Improved Accuracy: Navigation spine surgery aims to improve the accuracy of instrument placement, reducing the risk of complications and improving overall surgical outcomes.
  • Minimized Tissue Damage: The precision afforded by navigation technology allows for targeted surgical interventions, minimizing disruption to surrounding tissues.

Navigation spine surgery is considered a valuable tool in modern orthopedic practices, especially for complex spinal procedures. Patients considering this type of surgery should have a detailed discussion with their orthopedic surgeon to understand the potential benefits, risks, and expected outcomes based on their specific condition. The decision to use navigation technology is individualized and depends on the specific characteristics of the patient’s spinal condition and the surgeon’s expertise.

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