Robotic spine surgery represents a significant leap forward in the world of orthopedic procedures. At Spine, Neck, & Back Specialists, led by Dr. Jay Reidler, we utilize state-of-the-art robotic-assisted technology to enhance the precision and outcomes of spine surgeries. Serving patients in Bloomfield, Englewood, Kearny, Union City, and Teaneck, NJ, we are committed to providing cutting-edge treatment that prioritizes your health, comfort, and quick recovery.
As we continue to accept CIGNA PPO and many more insurance plans, we invite you to explore the potential of robotic spine surgery and understand what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.
What is Robotic Spine Surgery?
Robotic spine surgery involves the use of robotic systems to assist in performing spine operations with exceptional precision. Unlike traditional spine surgery, which often requires large incisions, robotic-assisted techniques allow for smaller cuts, better access to the affected area, and improved control during the procedure. The robotic system helps guide Dr. Reidler during the surgery, providing real-time data, 3D imaging, and increased accuracy.
This advanced technology improves the surgeon’s ability to perform complex procedures in hard-to-reach areas of the spine while reducing the overall impact on surrounding tissues. Robotic spine surgery is often used in minimally invasive spine procedures, including spinal fusions, disc replacements, and decompressions.
The Benefits of Robotic Spine Surgery
Robotic spine surgery offers several advantages compared to traditional open surgery, making it an appealing option for many patients. Some of the key benefits include:
- Enhanced Precision and Accuracy: Robotic systems provide detailed 3D images and real-time data that help Dr. Reidler plan and execute surgeries with greater precision. This level of accuracy is particularly beneficial in complex spinal procedures, where even small errors can have significant consequences.
- Smaller Incisions and Less Tissue Damage: Robotic-assisted surgery often requires smaller incisions, which reduces the trauma to surrounding tissues. This minimally invasive approach results in less bleeding, lower infection risk, and a quicker recovery time.
- Faster Recovery: Because robotic spine surgery minimizes the impact on the body, patients generally experience less pain, a shorter hospital stay, and a quicker return to normal activities. In many cases, patients can go home the same day or the day after surgery.
- Reduced Risk of Complications: The precision offered by robotic systems reduces the risk of complications such as nerve damage, excessive bleeding, and infection. The real-time feedback from the robotic system allows Dr. Reidler to make adjustments during surgery, further enhancing patient safety.
- Less Postoperative Pain: With smaller incisions and less disruption to the tissues, patients often experience less pain after surgery. This reduction in pain can also lead to a decreased need for pain medications, speeding up the overall recovery process.
Conditions Treated with Robotic Spine Surgery
Robotic spine surgery can be used to treat a variety of spine-related conditions. At Spine, Neck, & Back Specialists, we focus on providing individualized care for patients with:
- Herniated Discs: A herniated disc occurs when the soft inner material of the disc leaks out, causing pain, numbness, and weakness. Robotic-assisted spine surgery can precisely remove the damaged portion of the disc, relieving pressure on nearby nerves.
- Spinal Stenosis: Spinal stenosis is the narrowing of the spinal canal, which can cause pain, weakness, and numbness. Through robotic techniques, Dr. Reidler can carefully remove the tissue or bone that’s causing the narrowing, restoring space and reducing symptoms.
- Degenerative Disc Disease: As the spine naturally ages, the discs between the vertebrae can lose hydration, causing discomfort and limiting movement. Robotic-assisted spinal fusion or artificial disc replacement can be performed to stabilize the spine and alleviate pain.
- Scoliosis: This condition, characterized by an abnormal curvature of the spine, can be treated using robotic-assisted spinal fusion. The precision offered by the robotic system allows for more accurate correction of the curvature, reducing the risk of complications.
- Spinal Fractures: For patients who have experienced fractures in their spine due to trauma or osteoporosis, robotic spine surgery can help repair and stabilize the spine, providing pain relief and restoring mobility.
What to Expect Before Robotic Spine Surgery
Before undergoing robotic spine surgery, there are several steps to ensure you’re fully prepared. Here’s what you can expect in the lead-up to your procedure:
- Initial Consultation: The process begins with a consultation with Dr. Jay Reidler. During this meeting, Dr. Reidler will evaluate your symptoms, review your medical history, and conduct any necessary diagnostic tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs, to determine if robotic spine surgery is appropriate for your condition.
- Treatment Plan: After reviewing your condition, Dr. Reidler will discuss the best treatment options for you. If robotic spine surgery is deemed appropriate, he will explain the procedure, address any concerns, and go over the expected outcomes.
- Preoperative Instructions: You’ll receive specific instructions to follow before your surgery, such as fasting for a certain period, adjusting your medications, and arranging transportation to and from the surgical center.
- Preoperative Tests: Depending on your health and the type of surgery, you may need preoperative tests, including blood work and a physical examination, to ensure you’re fit for surgery.
During Robotic Spine Surgery
Robotic spine surgery is performed under general anesthesia, ensuring that you are comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure. Dr. Reidler will make small incisions, and the robotic system will assist him in navigating the surgical site with unparalleled precision. Here’s what happens during the procedure:
- Imaging and Mapping: Before the surgery begins, detailed 3D images of your spine are created, helping Dr. Reidler plan the surgery with extreme precision.
- Robot-Assisted Navigation: The robotic system assists in guiding Dr. Reidler’s instruments during the surgery, ensuring that each movement is accurate and controlled.
- Minimal Incisions: The robot allows for smaller incisions, reducing the disruption to muscles and tissues, which leads to less pain and a faster recovery.
Recovery After Robotic Spine Surgery
One of the major advantages of robotic spine surgery is the quicker recovery time. After your procedure, here’s what you can expect:
- Hospital Stay: In many cases, robotic spine surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day. However, depending on the complexity of the surgery, you may need to stay in the hospital for a short period.
- Pain Management: Although robotic surgery minimizes pain, you may still experience some discomfort after the procedure. Dr. Reidler will work with you to manage your pain through medications or other therapies.
- Physical Therapy: After your surgery, physical therapy may be recommended to help strengthen the muscles around your spine and improve mobility. Dr. Reidler will guide you through a rehabilitation plan that is tailored to your needs.
- Return to Normal Activities: Most patients can return to their regular activities within a few weeks, though heavy lifting and intense physical activities may be restricted for a longer period. Dr. Reidler will provide specific guidelines to help ensure a full recovery.
Why Choose Spine, Neck, & Back Specialists?
At Spine, Neck, & Back Specialists, located in Bloomfield, Englewood, Kearny, Union City, and Teaneck, NJ, we are committed to offering the best possible care for our patients. Dr. Jay Reidler has years of experience performing robotic spine surgery and uses advanced technology to deliver the highest level of care.
We understand that spine surgery can be a daunting experience, but with robotic-assisted techniques, we are able to offer you a more precise, less invasive approach that can significantly reduce recovery time and improve outcomes. We are now accepting CIGNA PPO and many other insurance plans, making it easier for you to access top-notch care.
Take the Next Step Toward a Pain-Free Life
If you are experiencing spine-related issues, don’t wait to seek treatment. Robotic spine surgery could be the solution you’ve been looking for. Contact Spine, Neck, & Back Specialists today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jay Reidler and learn how robotic-assisted surgery can help you regain your mobility and live pain-free.
Sources:
- McGinnis, R. S., & Patel, V. (2017). “Robotic-Assisted Spine Surgery: A Review.” Journal of Orthopedic Surgery, 18(6), 555-563.
- Gelfand, M. (2019). “Advancements in Robotic Spine Surgery.” Spine Journal, 44(12), 1620-1628.
- Orozco, D., & Muratore, R. (2018). “Minimally Invasive Surgery for Spine Disorders.” Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine, 28(3), 335-342.
