Kyphosis is an abnormal anterior curvature of the spine, usually affecting the thoracic region. Any patient with kyphosis more than 70-80 degrees or experiencing pain and/or neurological symptoms will be offered surgery. Posterior correction for kyphosis consists of the insertion of screws above and below the deformity, osteotomies to create more leverage, and rod fixation to restore normal alignment and relieve compressive forces upon the neural elements.
The robotic approach to kyphosis correction begins with prone patient positioning and the acquisition of intraoperative imaging. The surgeon utilises robotic software to plan precise locations for osteotomies and optimal screw trajectories. In severe cases, the surgeon may perform Ponte osteotomies or more substantial vertebral column resection guided by robotic navigation.
The robotic arm provides submillimeter guidance for each pedicle screw, which is particularly valuable in the kyphotic spine where the deformity alters pedicle trajectories. After screw placement, the surgeon applies corrective forces through specialised reduction techniques. The superior accuracy of robotically guided instrumentation enables safer application of corrective forces, potentially reducing the risk of neurological injury during this demanding procedure.
