Emerging Technologies in Spinal Surgery: Ultra-Low Radiation Imaging Platforms. (15th June 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Pacult, Mark A; Walker, Corey T; Godzik, Jakub; Turner, Jay D; Uribe, Juan S
• Is Part Of: Operative neurosurgery. Volume 21(2021)Supplement 1
• Page Start: S39
• Page End: S45
• Publication Date: 2021-06-15
• Subjects: Imaging -- Radiation -- Spine -- Technology -- Ultra-low dose radiation; Nervous system -- Surgery -- Periodicals; 617.480590
• DOI: 10.1093/ons/opaa324
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2332-4252

Abstract

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Spine surgery has seen tremendous growth in the past 2 decades. A variety of safety, practical, and market-driven needs have spurred the development of new imaging technologies as necessary tools for modern-day spine surgery. Although current imaging techniques have proven satisfactory for operative needs, it is well-known that these techniques have negative consequences for operators and patients in terms of radiation risk. Several mitigating techniques have arisen in recent years, ranging from lead protection to radiation-reducing protocols, although each technique has limits. A hitherto-problematic barrier has been the fact that efforts to diminish radiation emission come at the cost of reduced image quality. OBJECTIVE: To describe new ultra-low radiation imaging modalities that have the potential to drastically reduce radiation risk and minimize unacceptable adverse effects. METHODS: A literature review was performed of articles and studies that used either of 2 ultra-low radiation imaging modalities, the EOS system (EOS-Imaging S.A., Paris, France) and LessRay (NuVasive, San Diego, CA). RESULTS: Both ultra-low radiation imaging modalities reduce radiation exposure in the preoperative and perioperative settings. EOS provides 3-dimensional reconstructive capability, and LessRay offers intraoperative tools that facilitate spinal localization and proper visual alignment of the spine. CONCLUSION: These novel radiation-reducing technologies diminish patient and surgeon exposure, aid the surgeon in preoperative planning, and streamline intraoperative workflow.