Robotic-Assisted Spine Surgery
Community Medical Center is pleased to offer robotic-assisted, minimally invasive spine surgery. This type of surgery is particularly beneficial for patients with a range of conditions or injuries affecting the column of bones, known as vertebrae, that extend from the neck down to the lower back.
Community Medical Center is the only facility in Missoula to feature the ExcelsiusGPS technology. Using robotic techniques allows an experienced team to be more precise and consistent by providing improved visualization of patient anatomy to optimize patient treatment. The technology enhances safety and efficiency for patients, staff and surgeons in the OR. Shorter procedure time means less anesthesia for the patient, putting them on the road to recovery faster.
What are the benefits of robotic-assisted surgery?
- Smaller incision
- Less muscle trauma
- Less blood loss
- Lower infection risk
- Shorter hospital stay
- Quicker recovery time
- Less reliance on pain medication
What are the risks of robotic-assisted surgery?
Complications occur less in robotic-assisted surgery than in open surgery, however, the risks of robotic-assisted spine surgery are similar to traditional spinal procedures:
- Injury to the nerve root
- Leaking of spinal fluid, which may cause headaches after surgery
- Blood clots
- Allergic reactions or complications from anesthesia
- Infection
How does it work?
The magnified, high-resolution, three-dimensional view the surgeon experiences enables them to perform precise and complex surgery through very small surgical incisions, while having total control of the robotic system. The new spine robot is particularly beneficial for patients with a range of conditions or injuries affecting the column of bones, known as vertebrae, that extend from the neck down to the lower back, offering benefits such as reduced postoperative pain, shorter hospital stays and a quicker recovery.
Throughout the procedure, the surgical instruments and any metal implants are continuously displayed on the screen for the surgical team to view in real-time. This improved visualization of the patient’s anatomy allows the surgeon to individualize the surgery to the patient, confirm final implant positioning, and ultimately help the patient return to their daily activities as soon as possible.