Robotic spinal surgery: what you should know

Written in association with: Mr Irfan Malik
Published: | Updated: 03/10/2024
Edited by: Jessica Wise

Robotic spinal surgery is when surgeons use robotic technology to assist during surgeries on the spine and back. Though you may feel apprehensive about putting your life in the hands of a robot (though these robots do not have “hands”, per se), the surgeon is still in the room, leading and participating in the procedure. We asked Mr Irfan Malik, consultant spinal and neurosurgeon, to share why he thinks robotic assistance during spinal surgery is an asset when having to navigate the twisty nuances of the spine.

 

 

Before this innovative technology was integrated with surgery practices, surgeons would have to operate on the complex and delicate spine guided only by X-rays, their memory of anatomy, and trusting themselves to keep their hands steady. Though doctors train and study for years to become tried-and-true medical professionals, as humans they are still fallible to lapses in memory and judgement, and no one person can truly keep still. Spine surgeries, furthermore, are long, intensive procedures, which means the doctors can lose composure and stamina as the hours tick by.

 

What are the benefits of robotic spinal surgery?

Robotic assistance helps surgeons due to their unlimited endurance, mathematical precision, and dexterity in accessing difficult-to-reach places along the vertebrae. The robots will have built-in surgical instruments on their “arms”, a control panel for the surgeon, and cameras that provide high-definition, real-time, and colour-accurate imagery of the procedure or anatomy. Having machines that are specifically designed for a role means there is less room for inaccuracy, for example in the placement of spinal screws, which is pivotal to do correctly otherwise there can be paralytic or neurologic damage to the patient. In general, robot assistance means there are smaller incisions and less blood loss, therefore the recovery for the patient is faster.

They can be an aid in small operating spaces, where before there could be crowding from other staff. Robots further help by eliminating the need for invasive manoeuvres to access anatomy, and can greatly cut down the time needed for procedure. Furthermore, robots can take the place of X-ray imaging, meaning less exposure to radiation for the patient, surgeon, and staff.

Robotic assistance has successfully been used in many procedures, such as:

  • Spinal fusion
  • Tumour excision
  • Vertebroplasty
  • Vertebral fractures
  • Spinal decompression

 

What are the risks of robotic spinal surgery?

Not every procedure will necessitate robotic assistance, as it depends on the urgency and complexity of the procedure, and some patients may not be suitable due to other considerations. There are risks, as with any surgery or surgeon. Robots are powered by electricity, so should there be a power surge or outage, the robotic assistance would not be usable. The tools could not be appropriately sanitised before the operation. If there is an unexpected complication during the procedure that the robot is not programmed for, then it is just an obstruction in the operating room. There is a learning curve to consider for surgeons working with robotic assistance, which could impact their confidence.

Thankfully, technology evolves at a rapid rate, so there are always improvements to robotic surgical assistance. Hundreds of procedures have been accomplished thanks to robot assistance in the few years it has been available, and we can only imagine the future possibilities.

 

If you are considering spinal surgery and want to explore your options, Dr Irfan Malik is available for consultation via his Top Doctors profile.

By Mr Irfan Malik
Neurosurgery

Mr Irfan Malik is a leading consultant spinal surgeon in London. He is an expert in the full spectrum of spinal pathologies such as spinal traumas and fractures, sports injuries of the spine, tumours and cancers, and degenerative spinal conditions including herniated discs, sciatica, and spinal stenosis. He practices at several prominent HCA clinics across the city.

Mr Malik is renowned for his capabilities in endoscopic procedures, minimally invasive spinal surgery and robotic-assisted spine procedures. He integrates the latest, cutting-edge technologies into his daily practice to ensure maximum precision, safe procedures, optimal outcomes, and faster recovery for his patients. In addition, he provides a comprehensive service for the treatment of epilepsy. Mr Malik utilises his rich experience in spinal conditions for both surgical and non-surgical treatments. He is particularly adept at incorporating minimally invasive techniques for surgery, such as disk replacement, sciatica, and treatments for neck pain, back pain, and arm pain. Mr Malik has performed the highest number of endoscopic spinal surgeries in the UK, truly establishing him as one of the nation’s top doctors.
 
With an esteemed career that spans decades, Mr Malik is widely respected as one of the leaders of spine and neurosurgery, a field to which he has contributed greatly. He is an active researcher and innovator, contributing to the evolution of spine surgery and has provided breakthrough treatments for the most complex of spinal cases. He is a frequent keynote speaker for major international conferences and symposia, providing insights and facilitating global collaboration for the advancement of spinal care.
 
Mr Malik is a passionate advocate for raising global standards in spinal surgery, and is committed to training and mentoring the next generation of spinal surgeons. As an educator, he leads workshops and masterclasses focused on advanced minimally invasive and robotic techniques. Mr Malik has trained surgeons from around the world, with the hope that his innovations and techniques can improve the quality of life for patients from anywhere. His practice is founded on compassionate, holistic, and tailored care for each unique patient’s needs and goals.

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