Spine surgeons hone in on holes

Surgeons have been using GPS-based devices for some time, but a Sydney operating theatre has been fitted with the medical equivalent of park-assist.

It’s a leap forward, says neurosurgeon Dr Jonathon Ball, who is using the robotic system to make his already exacting spine operations more precise.

Apart from reducing risk and improving accuracy, the Israeli-designed Renaissance guidance system improves recovery time and reduces pain.

Dr Ball and orthopedic surgeon Dr Brian Hsu use it to position a drill guide before they insert screws and rods which stabilise deformed, degenerated or injured spines.

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