Date of Award
Spring 5-19-2023
Document Type
Open Access Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Medical Science (MMSc)
First Advisor
Peter Whang, MD, FACS
Abstract
Adult degenerative scoliosis is characterized by the side-to-side curvature of the spine due to the degeneration of facet joints and intervertebral discs. Life-limiting cases of adult degenerative scoliosis are corrected by spinal fusion, the success of which is determined by pedicle screw accuracy. Robot-assisted guidance has become more commonly used in spinal surgery to ensure pedicle screw placement. However, there is limited evidence for the role of robot-assisted guidance in the correction of adult degenerative scoliosis. Here, in this randomized controlled trial, we aim to investigate whether robot-assisted guidance can more consistently produce accurate pedicle screw placement than neuronavigation. One hundred and fifty participants of specific selection criteria will undergo spinal fusion with the guidance of robot assistance or neuronavigation with postoperative computerized tomography scans to measure the pedicle screw accuracy. This study may have a widespread, direct impact in supporting the use of robotics to correct degenerative scoliosis.
Recommended Citation
Hanks, Kyle, "Spinal Fusion for Adult Degenerative Scoliosis: RCT of Robot-Assisted Versus Navigation Guidance" (2023). Yale School of Medicine Physician Associate Program Theses. 178.
https://elischolar.library.yale.edu/ysmpa_theses/178
