Innovations in Spinal Fusion: The Latest Implant Technologies
The future of spinal fusion surgery is filled with possibilities as implantation methods, surgical technologies, spinal implant production, material used, spinal implant design, etc. are evolving and advancing at an accelerated pace. The innovations and advancements in spinal implant technology are enabling surgeons to significantly improve the efficiency, precision, accuracy, and outcomes of spinal fusion procedures.
Not just that, the developments in spinal implants and fusion surgeries are revolutionizing recovery time, reducing soft tissue trauma, minimizing bleeding during surgeries, improving patient comfort, increasing surgeon control and efficacy, and transforming patients’ life quality.
What are these innovations and advancements? Keep reading to find out.
Spinal Implants: An Overview of Implants Used in Spinal Fusion
Spinal implants are medical devices that are used in spine surgical procedures for fusion and stabilization of the spine, back & neck pain management, deformity correction, spine reconstruction, treating fractures, and addressing other spinal issues.
Spinal implants play a critical role in providing structural support and stability to the spine while facilitating the formation of a solid bone bridge between the vertebrae and alleviating pain. They aid in improving the quality of life of countless patients.
Types of Spinal Implants Used in Fusion Surgeries
Spine Cages or Interbody Fusion Cages: These are hollow cylindrical implants with large central graft windows that allow for better fusion of the bone and restore disc height. They are typically used in spinal fusion procedures and are made with surgery-grade titanium or PEEK.
Pedicle Screws: Pedicle screws are spinal implants that are inserted into the pedicles of vertebrae to provide stability and support during the fusion process. Made with surgery-grade stainless steel or titanium, they are typically used in combination with other spinal implants such as connectors, rods, and platers.
Rods and Plates: Made with titanium or stainless steel, rods and plates are surgical implants used to link pedicle screws and provide additional stabilization to the spine. They are available in multiple configurations and can be customized to suit the patient’s anatomical needs.
A Look at the Latest Innovations in Spinal Fusion Implants
Evolving Types of Spinal Implants
Within the types of spinal fusion implants, several new variations are emerging to help in effectively treating diverse spinal issues. We have porous implants, especially 3D-printed spinal cage implants, that promote greater bone growth in spinal fusion surgeries.
The emergence of expandable spinal implants enables surgeons to effectively adjust their alignment and fit during the procedure. These implants extend greater flexibility to surgeons in achieving proper fit and alignment.
Minimally Invasive Surgeries
One of the most important developments in spinal fusion surgery is the emergence of Minimally Invasive Surgeries (MIS). MIS enables surgeons to perform fusion surgery and insert spinal implants with smaller incisions and minimal damage to the surrounding soft tissues. The loss of blood, postoperative pain, and patient discomfort are minimized, speeding up recovery and reducing the period of hospitalization.
MIS, which leverages advanced technology and visualization tools, is particularly helpful in complex spinal procedures. As surgeons don’t have to rely on the tactile feedback and anatomic landmarks that the freehand technique requires, they can improve the precision of fusion surgeries greatly and minimize the risk of nerve root damage and other complications.
Advanced Navigation and Visualizations Systems
The advanced, computer-assisted navigation and HD imaging systems of today are empowering surgeons to significantly improve the precision of spine surgeries. The HD imaging systems enable surgeons to better visualize the patient’s anatomy and effectively plan surgeries. The visualization systems also provide real-time feedback, enabling surgeons to quickly make changes to ensure better surgical outcomes.
The advanced navigation systems enable surgeons to navigate the unique and complicated anatomical structures of the spine with greater accuracy while minimizing nerve root damage and soft tissue damage. They can effectively and swiftly insert and align the spinal implants.
Use of Latest Technology in Implantation
In addition to MIS, advanced navigation systems, and visualization tools, surgeons today have robotics to help them improve surgical outcomes. With the use of robotic arms and other robotic systems, surgeons can effectively perform complex surgeries with greater precision and improve surgical outcomes while reducing the risk of human errors.
Advanced Materials Used for Spinal Implants
Spinal implants today are crafted using advanced biocompatible materials such as premium quality titanium, and PEEK, among others. These materials are not only sturdy but also durable. They are strong enough to provide support and stability to the spine, but not rigid enough to restrict bone fusion and growth or cause nerve pressure. Being biocompatible, they do not interact with bodily fluids or react adversely, reducing the risks of implant rejection, corrosion, allergic reactions, infections, and other complications. The longevity and the performance of spinal implants are improved greatly owing to the use of such materials.
Additive Manufacturing for Custom 3D-Printed Spinal Implants
The application of 3D printing and additive manufacturing in producing spinal implants are helping usher in the future of spine surgery. 3D-printed spinal implants enable surgeons to customize implant and surgical solutions to address the unique challenges and anatomical needs of patients. 3D-printed spinal implants fit even patients with unusual anatomies perfectly and help improve surgical outcomes greatly. These customized implants reduce the risk of implant rejection and other complications significantly.
Simple and Precise Instrument Kits for Spinal Fusion
The development of an innovative, simple, precise range of instruments enables surgeons to perform spinal fusion procedures with great efficiency and accuracy. They reduce surgeon fatigue and make implantation swifter.
Use of Latest Technology in Production
From CAD software, FEA, topology optimization, rapid prototyping, and HD imaging to precision CNC machines, robotic automation, and 3D printing, the use of the latest technologies in the production of spinal implants is making them more precise.
Gesco: The Home of Innovative Spinal Implants
Gesco is a renowned medical device company that specializes in the design, development, and manufacture of cutting-edge spinal implants. Powered by a team of multidisciplinary experts, fully equipped research labs, collaboration with the medical fraternity, and a culture of innovation, we produce a range of innovative, precise, superior-quality implants that are revolutionizing spine surgery.
Visit our website now to find out more about our range of spinal implants.
