Seamless and safe integration into the usual operative process
The authors state that the RoboticScope not only integrated seamlessly and safely into the usual operative process, but also fitted well with their established workflow of a MIS-TLIF. It was observed that the surgeon was able to stay in an ergonomic, comfortable position, even in case of extreme tubular retractor angulations which led to a significant reduction in tension and muscle fatigue.
The available workspace under magnification was evaluated superior to the institution’s standard microscope as throughout the whole procedure the instruments, especially when using long instruments, could be kept in the surgical field. This could help prevent unintentional hand deviations and complications during microsurgical procedures.
The overall outcome was good, no intra- or perioperative complications occurred, and all four pedicle screws placed, were assessed as grade A according to the Gertzbein-Robbins scale. (Gertzbein et al., 1990)