Use of the Scan-and-Plan Workflow in Next-Generation Robot-Assisted Pedicle Screw Insertion: Retrospective Cohort Study and Literature Review

Abstract

To report our experience using the scan-and-plan workflow and review current literature on surgical efficiency, safety, and accuracy of next-generation robot-assisted (RA) spine surgery. The records of patients who underwent RA pedicle screw fixation were reviewed. The accuracy of pedicle screw placement was determined based on the Ravi classification system. To evaluate workflow efficiency, 3 demographically matched cohorts were created to analyze differences in time per screw placement (defined as operating room [OR] time divided by number of screws placed). Group A had <4 screws placed, Group B had 4 screws placed, and Group C had >4 screws placed. Intraoperative errors and postoperative complications were collected to elucidate safety. Eighty-four RA cases (306 pedicle screws) were included for analysis. The mean number of screws placed was 2.1 ± 0.3 in Group A and 6.4 ± 1.2 in Group C; 4 screws were placed in Group B patients. The accuracy rate (Ravi grade I) was 98.4%. Screw placement time was significantly longer in Group A (101 ± 37.7 minutes) than Group B (50.5 ± 25.4 minutes) or C (43.6 ± 14.7 minutes). There were no intraoperative complications, robot failures, or in-hospital complications requiring a return to the OR. The scan-and-plan workflow allowed for a high degree of accuracy. It was a safe method that provided a smooth and efficient OR workflow without registration errors or robotic failures. After the placement of 4 pedicle screws, the per-screw time remained constant. Further studies regarding efficiency and utility in multilevel procedures are necessary.