Use of Robotic Technologies in Deformity Surgery
Orthopedic deformity surgery is a complex surgical field aimed at correcting bone and joint abnormalities to improve patients' quality of life. The success of surgical techniques in deformity surgery depends on the precision achieved during the operation and the accuracy of the preoperative planning. In recent years, the development of robotic technologies has significantly increased the effectiveness and safety of surgical interventions.
Robotic systems are primarily used in deformity surgery during preoperative planning, intraoperative navigation, and postoperative control. These systems allow the surgeon to create three-dimensional models of the anatomical structure and perform simulations to devise the optimal surgical roadmap. As a result, deformity detection and correction procedures are carried out more precisely and in a controlled manner.
In procedures such as limb lengthening and correction of bone shortening and curvatures, robotic assistance enhances surgical precision and reduces manufacturing tolerances. Particularly, robotic guidance systems facilitate the movement of surgical instruments at accurate angles and depths in targeted regions, significantly reducing the risk of complications.
Another advantage of robotic technologies is the shortening of surgical time. The detailed preoperative planning and intraoperative tracking capabilities of robotic systems enable surgeons to complete operations more quickly and accurately. For patients, this translates into faster postoperative recovery and a decrease in complications such as infection and bleeding. Additionally, in the demanding arena of deformity surgery, robotic support helps reduce surgeon fatigue and the likelihood of errors.
The primary robotic systems used in deformity surgery include navigation-assisted surgery and robotic guidance devices. Their fundamental principle is to process patient-specific anatomical data digitally to ensure the safest and most appropriate intervention in the surgical field. Some advanced robotic platforms track the surgeon’s hand movements to prevent tremors and slips while enabling precise control over applied force and angles.
Scientific studies have shown that robotic-assisted deformity surgery has higher success rates compared to traditional methods. These studies demonstrate significant reductions in deformity recurrence rates post-surgery, decreased pain scores, and improved functional recovery. However, factors such as costs, training, and infrastructure investments must be considered for wider implementation of these technologies.
Integration of robotic systems also supports multidisciplinary approaches. Collaboration among orthopedists, radiologists, and engineers allows creation of specially tailored surgical plans for each patient. This facilitates personalized medical applications and increases patient satisfaction.
Currently, techniques such as the Ilizarov method for limb lengthening and deformity correction can be applied more precisely with robotic support. Robotic platforms enable more planned surgical interventions and regular monitoring of fracture alignment during the lengthening process. This contributes to reducing complications, particularly the risks of nonunion and infection.
The future of robotic technologies in deformity surgery looks promising. Systems enhanced with artificial intelligence and machine learning will enable faster and more objective surgical decision-making. Furthermore, integration of technologies like augmented reality will provide the surgeon with real-time data and image support in the operating field.
All these advances indicate that robotic technologies in deformity surgery may soon become central to surgical practice rather than just an auxiliary tool. With goals of improving patient safety and treatment quality, robotic-assisted surgery will continue to grow in importance and prevalence.