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Review
. 2019 Dec;12(4):415-424.
doi: 10.1007/s12178-019-09577-z.

Computer Navigation in Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

Jonathan N Sembrano  1 , Sharon C Yson  2 , Jeffrey J Theismann  2
Affiliations
Review

Computer Navigation in Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

Jonathan N Sembrano et al. Curr Rev Musculoskelet Med. 2019 Dec.

Abstract

Purpose of review: The goal of the review is to discuss the common general applications of navigation in the context of minimally invasive spine surgery and assess its value in the published literature comparing against non-navigated or navigated techniques.

Recent findings: There is increasing utilization of computer navigation in minimally invasive spine surgery. There is synergy between navigation and minimally invasive technologies, such that one enhances or facilitates the other, thus leading to wider applications for both. Specifically, navigation has been shown to improve performance of percutaneous pedicle screw placement, vertebral augmentation, and minimally invasive fusion procedures. Overall, clinical studies have shown better accuracy and less radiation exposure with the use of navigation in spine surgery. The use of navigation in minimally invasive spine surgery enhances the accuracy of instrumentation and decreases radiation exposure. It is yet to be determined whether patient-reported outcomes will differ. Further research on its effect on clinical outcomes may further define the future impact of navigation in minimally invasive spine surgery.

Keywords: Minimally invasive spine surgery; Navigation; Percutaneous pedicle screw; Spine fusion.

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Conflict of interest statement

Jonathan N. Sembrano, MD has a research support from NuVasive, Inc. Sharon C. Yson, MD received a research support from SI-Bone, Inc. Jeffrey J. Theismann has no conflicts of interest.

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