Spine injuries are fairly common in America. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there were over 845,000 emergency department visits for spine injuries in 2017. Dr. Steve Paragioudakis, an experienced surgeon, says that the American Chiropractic Association estimates that 80 percent of the U.S. population is more likely to experience back or neck pain at some point in life.
Thankfully, surgeons can help patients with spine injuries. Depending on the severity of the spine injury, a surgeon can repair the damage. The procedure may include the fusion of the vertebrae or the insertion of plates, screws, or rods to stabilize the spine. At the same time, the practitioner may recommend physical therapy and rehabilitation to help the patient regain strength and mobility.
Dr. Paragioudakis noted that robotic spine surgery is an advanced, minimally-invasive surgical technique. It employs robotic technology to assist physicians in performing complex spine surgery. This procedure makes it easier for surgeons to maximize precision and control. The good thing is that it improves patient outcomes while minimizing trauma to the surrounding tissue.
During surgery, the doctor uses a small camera that allows them to view the area of the spine.
What to expect
Best of all, the procedure is a highly precise, computer-assisted intervention. Dr. Paragioudakis says patients can expect minimal pain, scarring, and a shorter recovery time than traditional open spine surgery. Additionally, the procedure allows surgeons to visualize the surgical area more clearly.
In the past, this surgery helped treat many conditions, including scoliosis and spinal stenosis. On top of that, it reduces the risk of infection and post-operative pain.
Recovery
The chances of recovery after robotic spine surgery depend on the type of procedure, the patient’s overall health, and the extent of the injury or condition. The procedure is generally a safe and effective option for certain conditions. Because of this, Steve Paragioudakis, MD, says many patients return to normal activities after the procedure.
However, he urges patients to discuss the potential risks and benefits with the doctor before surgery. He also points out that there are several factors determining how patients recover.
Here are the key factors:
Patient age – younger patients tend to have a higher success rate with robotic spine surgery. They often have fewer prior medical conditions that could hamper their recovery. Another factor is pre-surgery health. Patients with good overall health before surgery have shorter recovery times and better outcomes.
On the other hand, the experience level of the surgeon performing the procedure can significantly impact the success of the procedure and the patient’s recovery. At the same time, different types of robotic spine surgery have varying recovery times. For instance, a minimally invasive procedure may have a shorter recovery than a traditional open procedure.
Following the surgery, patients should adhere to a prescribed post-operative care plan to improve their chances of successful recovery. The plan may include physical therapy, medications, and lifestyle modifications.
Regular follow-up visits with the practitioner can help to ensure a successful recovery. These visits allow the surgeon to monitor the patient’s progress and make any necessary changes to the post-operative care plan.
About
Steve Paragioudakis, MD, is a Johns Hopkins University graduate who also studied at the UNDNJ New Jersey medical school. He boasts more than 30 years of spine surgery experience.
