Initial Experience, Lessons Learned, Tips and Tricks with Robot-Assisted Spine Surgery: Analysis of First 100 Cases+

OBJECTIVE: Robot-assisted spine surgery is expected to become increasingly common in the future as advancements in technology allow for even greater precision and efficiency. We share our experience with using the Excelsius global positioning system (GPS) spine surgical robot in spine surgery. METHODS: We analyzed 100 patients who underwent robotic-assisted transforaminal interbody fusion at our hospital. Demographic details, pedicle screw accuracy, and cranial facet joint violation were evaluated. Gretzbein Robbins classification was used for pedicle screw accuracy, and Yson classification was used to assess facet joint violation. RESULTS: A total of 424 screws were placed in 100 patients with robotic assistance. We found accuracy with robotic assistance was 98.10% and the grades 1 and 2 facet joint violation rates as 16.5% and 0%. CONCLUSION: Adding to the expanding body of knowledge on robotic-assisted spine surgery, sharing our early experience and useful tips and techniques will inspire other surgeons to embrace this cutting-edge technology for better patient care.