Mount Sinai Spine is at the forefront of innovation in spine surgery, combining leading-edge technologies like machine-vision navigation and augmented reality (AR) with a strong commitment to minimally invasive approaches. These advancements enhance surgical precision, improve patient safety, and reduce recovery times.
By integrating AI algorithms and robotics, Mount Sinai Spine is paving the way for a new era in spinal care, where each procedure is tailored to you, ensuring exceptional outcomes and setting the stage for future breakthroughs in the field.
Greater Precision With Machine-Vision Navigation
Machine-vision navigation utilizes visible light, eliminating the need for intraoperative radiation. This approach eliminates radiation exposure for patients. Unlike traditional methods that require preoperative computerized tomography (CT) scans and intraoperative fluoroscopy, the system at Mount Sinai Spine relies on camera-based technology and machine-vision algorithms.
The benefits are significant: zero radiation exposure, rapid image acquisition in under 30 seconds, and exceptional accuracy across every level of the spine.
At Mount Sinai Spine, the integration of machine-vision navigation has revolutionized spine surgery.
Jeremy M. Steinberger, MD
Jeremy M. Steinberger, MD, Director of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery and Associate Professor of Neurosurgery, Orthopedics, and Rehabilitation and Human Performance, says this technology significantly enhances surgical precision, which is essential for preventing nerve damage and optimizing screw placement.
“By tailoring care to your unique anatomy, this advanced approach improves safety, streamlines surgical workflows, reduces procedure time, and ultimately enhances patient outcomes,” he says.
Augmented Reality Enhances Surgical Detailed Visualization
Augmented reality is transforming spine surgery, making procedures more precise than ever before. Originally developed for brain surgery, this advanced technology has been adapted for spinal procedures, giving spine surgeons a new way to visualize and perform complex surgeries, according to Dr. Steinberger.
AR works by combining detailed CT or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans with an immersive virtual environment. Surgeons can use this technology to plan and simulate surgeries with significantly improved accuracy, seeing vital structures like blood vessels and nerves in real time.
“By overlaying these virtual images onto the actual surgical site through AR headsets, surgeons can guide their instruments with unmatched precision, leading to safer surgeries and better outcomes for patients,” says Dr. Steinberger.
Minimally Invasive Approaches to Improve Accuracy, Safety, and Outcomes
At the heart of Mount Sinai Spine’s approach is a dedication to minimally invasive spine surgery, where precision and patient safety come together. These techniques minimize tissue damage and shorten recovery times, and when combined with advanced robotic technologies like machine learning and AR, they further reduce the risks typically associated with traditional open surgeries.
Predicting the Best Surgical Outcomes
“Looking forward, the fusion of robotics and augmented reality in spine surgery is set to bring even more breakthroughs,” says Dr. Steinberger. “The research our team is conducting on AI algorithms that predict surgical outcomes highlights Mount Sinai’s dedication to advancing technology and enhancing patient care.”