Researchers from the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) in South Korea have succeeded in developing a surgical robot that can perform sensitive surgeries for areas of the brain and/or spinal cord, which are usually difficult to access. Furthermore, the robot performed the operation through the nose of a human cadaver, making it unnecessary for the skull to be opened.
Dr. Mark Giovanini of NeuroMicroSpine is constantly staying up-to-date on the latest technologies and practices in spine care. With the development of this surgical robot, the future of spine and brain surgeries could change drastically, resulting in fewer mistakes and even less recovery time.
As mentioned previously, the newly developed surgical robot allowed the medical team from Severance Hospital of Yonsei University Health System to do surgery on an area where existing surgical instruments cannot reach: the brain. One of the most advanced instruments used today is the da Vinci Surgical System. This robot is used to perform laparoscopic surgery and has a robotic arm 8mm in diameter.
The next-gen active cannula robot at Severance Hospital trumps that with a 4mm robotic arm. Additionally, the new system can support up to 500g in weight and bend at a 90-degree angle. The research team hopes to reduce the thickness of the robots arm by 2mm before commercializing it in three to five years.
Additional research has yet to be done, but if all goes well, this machine could enable two doctors to perform a surgery at the same time, using four robotic arms.
Currently, minimally invasive spine surgeries require x-ray imaging, small surgical instruments and a fluoroscope.
If medical professionals, spine surgeons especially, are taught how to use this device, it could make conducting a microscope surgery on the spine, possible.
Regardless, minimally invasive surgeries provide impressive results with less chance of infection and reduced downtime post-procedure. If you’re living with serious back, neck or shoulder pain, you could be a candidate for one of NeuroMicroSpine’s procedures. Call and request an appointment today with one of the leaders in minimally invasive spine surgery, Dr. Mark Giovanini.
For more information on minimally invasive spine surgery or to make an appointment with Dr. Giovanini, please call (850) 934-7545 or visit http://www.neuromicrospine.com/request-appointment.
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The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.
© NeuroMicroSpine, 2014
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