Robotic Lumbar Fusion

Robotic Lumbar Fusion is a cutting-edge surgical technique that uses robotic technology and 3D navigation to enhance the precision and safety of lumbar spine fusion procedures.
During the surgery, Dr. Tristan Fried uses robotic guidance to place implants (screws, rods, and cages) with extreme accuracy, ensuring optimal alignment and stability.

Robotic lumbar fusion combines the benefits of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) — smaller incisions, less muscle disruption, and faster recovery — with the advanced accuracy of robotics.
 

Robotic systems offer real-time 3D imaging and navigation, which enhances the surgeon’s ability to plan and execute complex procedures.
The benefits include:

•  Precise implant placement: for better long-term stability and outcomes.
   
• Smaller incisions: Less tissue disruption compared to traditional open surgery.
   
• Lower risk of complications: Reduces the chance of misplaced hardware or revision surgeries.
   
• Personalized planning: Each procedure is mapped to the patient’s unique anatomy.
   
• Enhanced safety: Continuous feedback during surgery minimizes risks.
   

Bottom line: Robotics help achieve better precision with less trauma, improving both surgical safety and recovery.

 

Robotic fusion is used to treat spinal instability and nerve compression caused by various conditions, especially when conservative treatments have failed.
Common reasons for robotic fusion include:

• Spondylolisthesis – vertebra slipping forward over another
   
• Spinal stenosis with instability
   
• Degenerative disc disease causing severe pain and instability
   
• Recurrent herniated discs after prior surgeries
   
• Spinal fractures or trauma requiring stabilization
   
• Certain cases of scoliosis or deformity correction

• Advanced precision: Robotic guidance ensures highly accurate screw and implant placement.
   
• Minimally invasive: Smaller incisions with less muscle damage and blood loss.
   
• Shorter hospital stay: Many robotic lumbar fusions are done as same-day outpatient procedures or with a one-night stay.
   
• Lower risk of revision surgery: Accurate placement reduces complications related to hardware or alignment issues.
   

You may be a good candidate if you have:

• Persistent back and leg pain that hasn’t improved with physical therapy, medications, or injections
   
• Imaging showing instability, deformity, or severe degeneration
   
• Neurological symptoms like numbness, tingling, or weakness caused by nerve compression
   
• Conditions such as spondylolisthesis, degenerative disc disease, or spinal stenosis
   
• Good bone quality and overall health for fusion healing
   

• 3D imaging and planning: Pre-surgical scans are uploaded into the robotic system to create a detailed surgical roadmap.
   
• Small incisions: Dr. Fried makes tiny incisions, typically less than 1 inch long.
   
• Robotic guidance: The robot provides real-time navigation, guiding the placement of screws, rods, and cages with millimeter-level accuracy.
   
• Decompression: Bone spurs or disc material pressing on nerves are carefully removed.
   
• Fusion: A bone graft or interbody cage is placed to join the vertebrae together, creating long-term stability.
   
• Closure: Incisions are closed with minimal stitches or adhesive for quicker healing.

• Same-day or overnight stay: Most patients go home within 24 hours.
   
• Walking right away: Light walking is encouraged within hours of surgery.
   
• Return to desk work or light activity: Often possible within 2–4 weeks.
   
• Physical therapy: Usually starts at 6 weeks after surgery to strengthen core and back muscles.
   
• Fusion timeline: Complete bone fusion typically occurs over 6 months.
   
• Full recovery: Most patients return to normal activities and sports within 6-12 months.
   

Many patients notice immediate relief of leg pain, with back pain gradually improving as the fusion heals.
 

• Stop certain medications such as blood thinners, as directed by Dr. Fried.
   
• Avoid food or drink for a set period before the procedure.
   
• Arrange for transportation home and help with daily tasks during the first week.
   
• Set up a recovery area at home with essentials like a firm chair and easy-to-reach items.
   
• Quit smoking — nicotine slows bone healing and reduces the success of fusion.
   

Contact Dr. Fried’s office immediately if you experience:

• Fever, chills, or redness at the incision site
   
• Sudden, severe back or leg pain
   
• New or worsening numbness, tingling, or weakness
   
• Difficulty walking or maintaining balance
   
• Sudden bladder or bowel control changes (medical emergency)