New Technologies in Spine Surgery: A Comprehensive Guide

Guest edited by Dr. Nathaniel P. Brooks and Dr. Michael Y. Wang, this issue of Neurosurgery Clinics delves into the latest advancements in spine surgery. The compilation includes a wide range of articles covering cutting-edge technologies and techniques that are revolutionizing the field of spinal surgery.

Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy

Endoscopic lumbar discectomy is a minimally invasive procedure that uses an endoscope to remove herniated disc material. This technique offers several benefits over traditional open surgery, including reduced tissue damage, less pain, and quicker recovery times.

Endoscopic Cervical Foraminotomy

Endoscopic cervical foraminotomy is a surgical procedure aimed at relieving pressure on the spinal nerves in the neck. By using an endoscope, surgeons can access the affected area through a small incision, reducing trauma to surrounding tissues and promoting faster healing.

Endoscopic Lumbar Interbody Fusion

Endoscopic lumbar interbody fusion is a minimally invasive technique used to fuse vertebrae in the lower back. This procedure involves inserting bone graft material through an endoscope, eliminating the need for large incisions and reducing postoperative pain and recovery time.

Endoscopic Lumbar Decompression

Endoscopic lumbar decompression is a minimally invasive procedure designed to relieve pressure on the spinal nerves in the lower back. This technique uses an endoscope to visualize the spinal canal and remove any compressive structures, promoting pain relief and improved mobility.

Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion

Lateral lumbar interbody fusion is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to fuse vertebrae in the lower back. This procedure involves approaching the spine from the side, reducing tissue damage and promoting faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.

Retropleural Thoracic Approach

The retropleural thoracic approach is a minimally invasive technique used for accessing the thoracic spine. By working through the retropleural space, surgeons can avoid damaging vital structures and promote quicker recovery times.

Novel Intervertebral Technologies

Novel intervertebral technologies refer to the latest advancements in spinal implant design and materials. These innovations aim to improve the stability and durability of spinal fusions, enhancing patient outcomes and reducing the risk of complications.

Surface Technologies for Fusion

Surface technologies for fusion involve the development of new materials and designs for spinal implants. These advancements focus on improving the surface area of implants to enhance bone integration and promote successful fusion.

Cell derived/Stem Cell Technologies for Fusion

Cell-derived and stem cell technologies for fusion are cutting-edge approaches aimed at enhancing the fusion process. By using cells and stem cells to promote bone growth, these technologies can improve the success rate of spinal fusions and reduce the risk of complications.

Disk Replacement

Disk replacement is a surgical procedure that involves removing a damaged spinal disc and replacing it with an artificial one. This technique can help restore spinal mobility and alleviate pain caused by degenerative disc disease.

Enhanced Recovery in Spine Surgery/Perioperative Pain Management

Enhanced recovery in spine surgery refers to a multidisciplinary approach aimed at improving patient outcomes and reducing recovery times. This includes optimizing pain management strategies to minimize postoperative discomfort and promote quicker healing.

Imaging Technologies

Imaging technologies play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating spinal conditions. Advances in imaging modalities such as MRI and CT scans enable surgeons to visualize the spine in greater detail, improving the accuracy of surgical planning and execution.

Robotic Instrumentation Placement

Robotic instrumentation placement is a minimally invasive technique that uses robotic systems to place spinal implants with precision and accuracy. This technology can reduce tissue damage and improve the success rate of spinal fusions.

Minimally Invasive Deformity Advances

Minimally invasive deformity advances refer to the latest techniques and technologies used to correct spinal deformities. These approaches aim to reduce tissue damage and promote quicker recovery times compared to traditional open surgery.

Tissue Engineering/Regenerative Treatments

Tissue engineering and regenerative treatments are emerging fields that focus on repairing or replacing damaged spinal tissues using biological materials and techniques. These advancements hold great potential for revolutionizing the treatment of spinal conditions.

Minimally Invasive Tumor Ablation

Minimally invasive tumor ablation is a technique used to remove spinal tumors through small incisions. This approach reduces tissue damage and promotes quicker recovery times compared to traditional open surgery.