Gbolahan Okubadejo, MD, FAAOS, is a leading orthopedic spine surgeon who specializes in advanced spinal treatments, including robotic-assisted procedures. After years of experience treating complex spinal conditions, Dr. Okubadejo has embraced robotic spine surgery at his practice, the Institute for Comprehensive Spine Care in New York City and New Jersey.
Robotic spine surgery uses state-of-the-art technology and expert surgical techniques to minimize risks and improve recovery times for patients. The integration of robotic assistance into spinal procedures allows surgeons to perform highly complex operations more accurately and with better control. In this article, Dr. Okubadejo explains how robotic spine surgery works, its benefits, and who may be a suitable candidate.
What Is Robotic Spine Surgery?
Robotic spine surgery is an advanced technique that helps surgeons perform spinal procedures more accurately. It uses a robotic system equipped with real-time imaging and navigation to guide surgical instruments. This technique makes it easier for surgeons to see the surgery area and offers more precise control of surgical tools.
During the procedure, Dr. Okubadejo controls the robotic system, which helps him place implants, screws, or other surgical instruments with pinpoint accuracy. The robot provides live feedback and adjusts movements based on the patient’s anatomy, which reduces the margin for human error. This technique is especially useful in procedures that require precise spinal alignments, such as spinal fusion or deformity correction.
Benefits of Robotic Spine Surgery
Robotic-assisted spine surgery offers several advantages over traditional techniques. That’s why it is often the preferred choice for both surgeons and those patients who qualify.
Better Precision and Accuracy
The robotic system allows for millimeter-level accuracy. Surgeons are more easily able to properly place screws, implants, and other hardware. This reduces the likelihood of complications and revision surgeries.
Minimized Tissue Damage
Because robotic surgery is minimally invasive, it reduces disruption to surrounding muscles and soft tissues. This typically results in less postoperative pain and a quicker recovery.
Lower Risk of Complications
The enhanced imaging and navigation tools minimize the risks of surgical errors, nerve damage, and misalignment.
Shorter Recovery Time
Patients often experience faster healing, reduced hospital stays, and a quicker return to normal activities compared to traditional open spine surgery.
Common Spinal Conditions Treatable with Robotic Surgery
Robotic spine surgery is used to treat a variety of spinal conditions that require surgery. Some of the most common include:
Degenerative Disc Disease
This condition occurs when intervertebral discs wear down, which can cause pain, weakness, and numbness. Robotic surgical instruments can be used to remove damaged discs and precisely place implants. This may improve spinal stability and reduce discomfort for the patient.
Spinal Deformities
Patients with abnormal spinal curvature conditions, such as scoliosis or kyphosis, can benefit from robotic-assisted surgery. These techniques may be used to precisely correct deformities and re-align the spine.
Spinal Instability and Weakness
Conditions like spondylolisthesis, where one vertebra slips over another, can cause instability and pain. Robotic surgery makes spinal fusion procedures more precise, which can lead to better long-term spinal stability.
Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is characterized by a narrowing of the spinal canal, which exerts pressure on the nerves by compressing them. This condition can be effectively treated with robotic surgery. The technology aids in removing the bone or tissue that’s contributing to the narrowing and helps relieve pressure on the nerves.
How the Robotic Spine Surgery Process Works
Before the surgery, advanced imaging is used to create a 3D map of the patient’s spine. This allows Dr. Okubadejo to plan the procedure in detail and determine the best placement for implants or necessary corrections.
During the surgery, the robotic system provides real-time imaging and guidance. Dr. Okubadejo controls the robotic arms to conduct the procedure, while the system continuously adjusts for optimal alignment and placement of surgical instruments.
Due to the minimally invasive nature of robotic spine surgery, patients often experience less postoperative pain, faster healing, and shorter hospital stays. A quicker return to daily activities is also common. Dr. Okubadejo and his team provide comprehensive post-surgical care, such as physical therapy and follow-up consultations.
Who Is a Candidate for Robotic Spine Surgery?
Not all patients with spinal conditions require robotic surgery. However, those experiencing chronic back pain, limited mobility, or conditions that have not responded to traditional treatments may be good candidates.
Ideal candidates should be in good overall health, aside from their spinal conditions, since medical conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or severe osteoporosis can make the surgery riskier and more difficult. Non-smokers tend to have better recovery outcomes, since smoking can slow the healing process and similarly increase risk.
It’s also important for patients to have realistic expectations about the procedure and recovery. Dr. Okubadejo conducts thorough evaluations to determine whether robotic spine surgery is the best option for each patient.
Dr. Okubadejo’s Approach to Patient Care
Dr. Okubadejo is committed to providing individualized, patient-centered care. His approach involves a detailed assessment of each patient’s spinal health and treatment goals. He and his team at the Institute for Comprehensive Spine Care use cutting-edge technology to ensure the highest level of surgical precision and maintains a strong focus on long-term spine health, rehabilitation, and post-surgical support.
