The Role of Technology in Complex Spine Surgery:

Utilization of Intra-operative CT Scanning and Navigation to Improve Accuracy, Safety, and Speed.

Summary:

Dr. Jason Lowenstein, a spine surgeon from the United States, discusses the benefits of using intraoperative CT scanning and navigation in complex spine surgery. He emphasizes the importance of proper training and preparation before implementation, as a learning curve is associated with using this technology.

Dr. Lowenstein presents several cases where he has utilized intraoperative CT scanning and navigation, including cases of progressive idiopathic scoliosis, long right thoracolumbar scoliosis, high-grade spondylolisthesis, expansive lesions, and pain associated with scoliosis and spondylolisthesis. He notes that intraoperative CT scanning is useful in defining tumor margins during resection and confirming proper screw placement while avoiding visceral structures on the other side of the spine.

Dr. Lowenstein emphasizes the importance of maximal fixation in cases of high-grade spondylolisthesis to reduce adjacent segment degeneration as the patient ages. He also stresses the need for proper screw placement to avoid complications.

Overall, Dr. Lowenstein concludes that enabling technology, such as intraoperative CT scanning and navigation, has the potential to improve the accuracy, safety, and speed of complex spine surgery. However, he acknowledges that there is still much to learn about this relatively new technique and that proper training and preparation are crucial for successful implementation.

In summary, Dr. Lowenstein’s presentation highlights the benefits of using intraoperative CT scanning and navigation in complex spine surgery. He presents several cases where he has utilized this technology and emphasizes the importance of proper training and preparation before implementation. Dr. Lowenstein emphasizes the need for maximal fixation in cases of high-grade spondylolisthesis to reduce adjacent segment degeneration as the patient ages and stresses the importance of proper screw placement to avoid complications