Enhancing spine care with robotic navigation

Ridgeview’s Spine & Pain practice now has one of the latest and most advanced spinal navigation and robotics technologies. With this new technology, Ridgeview’s spine surgeons are able to more specifically plan procedures in advance and perform them with near perfect precision using 3D images of your anatomy.

According to Robert Brenner, MD, spine surgeon, Ridgeview, “This new robotics technology improves the safety of spinal surgery by allowing for the greatest precision when we place implants (such as rods, screws and plates) and relieves pressure on nerves through minimally invasive incisions, while also reducing radiation exposure for the patient.”

Providing safe and efficient spinal care

One of the key advantages of spinal navigation and robotics is the ability to plan surgery before the procedure even begins. Using advanced 3D technology and robotic guidance, this allows for real- time visualization of your anatomy and enhances the predictability of outcomes. With greater visibility, the surgeons are able to map out the safest and most efficient plan for the procedure.

“Robotics allows us to create a more detailed plan for surgery before you are in the operating room — reducing anesthesia time, incision size, muscle dissection and blood loss,” Dr. Brenner explained. “This results in faster healing and recovery with lower rates of reoperation.”

These benefits can also help patients experience less postoperative pain and a smoother recovery after surgery. This technology benefits many individuals having spine surgery, but it is particularly beneficial for patients with complex conditions. This includes patients who have had previous spine surgery, those with lower bone density and individuals with atypical spinal anatomy.

Advanced care close to home

Having this advanced spinal navigation and robotic technology at Ridgeview allows for expanded access to specialized spine care within the communities Ridgeview serves, rather than patients needing to travel to a larger health system to receive this level of care.

“This technology allows us to help so many more patients in the community,” Dr. Brenner said. “This allows you to recover near friends and family, which creates the best surgical outcomes.”

Ridgeview designated as a Blue Distinction Center+

Ridgeview’s Spine & Pain practice has also been designated as a Blue Distinction® Center+ for Spine Surgery by the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota. This designation demonstrates how Ridgeview’s Spine & Pain program delivers quality specialty care, safely and effectively.

Ridgeview’s Spine & Pain providers see patients for consultations at Ridgeview Waconia and Chaska campuses, and most surgeries are performed in Waconia.

Appointments can be made through MyChart or by calling 952.856.4033.