Are you living with chronic back pain that’s disrupting your life? Grigory Goldberg, MD, a spine surgeon in New Jersey, can help with surgical treatments that implement the latest advances in technology and patient care for the best results.
When conservative treatments for your back pain are ineffective, surgery may be the best option. There’s a lot to consider when deciding to move forward with surgical treatment, such as which surgeon you’ll choose. You have a lot of choices for robotic spine surgery in NJ, so how do you pick the right person to be your partner in recovery?
This guide will give you a better understanding of robotic-assisted surgery and why it’s quickly becoming the preferred method to perform spinal fusions, laminectomies, discectomies, and other spine conditions. You’ll also find tips and advice on how to find the right surgeon to perform your procedure to ensure the best possible experience and outcome.
What Is Robotic Surgery?
The term “robotic spine surgery” might create an image of a robot performing a surgical procedure without any human intervention, but that’s not entirely accurate.
So, what is robotic surgery? It’s a minimally invasive approach to surgery that involves using robotic arms to hold tiny instruments. The surgeon creates multiple small incisions, then places ports or tubes in them to keep the space open for surgical instruments and an endoscopic camera, which provides a high-definition, 3D view of the surgical area.
The surgeon sits at a console a few feet away from the operating table, and from there, controls the robotic arms as they perform the procedure. While some people might mistakenly believe that robotic surgery eliminates the need for a surgeon’s expertise, the opposite is actually true.
Spinal surgeons who use this technology must complete in-depth, specialized training in minimally invasive spine surgery; some even complete fellowships for their formal training. In fact, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality argues that a surgeon’s skill and experience have a more direct impact on the overall outcome of the surgery than the technology.
Is Robotic-Assisted Surgery Safe?
Robotic spine surgery in NJ is safe, and in some ways, it’s even safer than traditional surgery.
One significant advantage of robotic-assisted surgery is the capability of a surgeon to pre-plan the procedure. Using detailed CT scans, orthopedic surgeons can develop a treatment plan that takes into account factors like bone density, spinal deformities, and the desired outcomes. By thoroughly visualizing the process ahead of time, the surgeon can address any potential complications in advance.
That’s not the only reason why robotic surgery in NJ is a safe option, either. Other safety advantages include:
- Shorter procedure times, meaning less anesthesia
- Less blood loss
- More accurate placement of screws, as the Surgical Neurology International reports accurate placement in almost 99% of cases
- Faster healing
- Fewer complications resulting in rehospitalization, with the New York Times reporting that only 8% of all robotic surgeries have complications
Other Advantages of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Minimally invasive spine surgery offers more to patients than a safer procedure. Opting for a robotic spine surgery in NJ means:
- Chronic pain relief (about 85% of patients have a noticeable improvement in their back pain)
- Less scarring, since the incisions are typically less than two inches long as opposed to the eight inches or more required for open surgery
- Shorter hospital stay, with most patients going home within one day and the longest stays lasting about four days
Overall, robotic surgeries offer benefits for both patients and surgeons. Patients enjoy less invasive surgeries with faster recoveries and less risk of complications, while surgeons experience less fatigue. The American College of Surgeons also points out that robotic surgeries reduce costs, thanks to shorter hospital stays and reduced readmissions.
What To Look for in a Surgeon When Considering Robotic Spine Surgery in NJ
The key to enjoying the best outcome following robotic spine surgery in NJ is working with the right surgeon. A good relationship with a doctor you trust can lead to better outcomes, thanks to improved communication or, more specifically, your involvement in discussions about your care. As you explore your options, look for providers who have these qualifications.
- Experience and training: For the safest surgery and best results, choose a surgeon with a track record of success performing similar procedures and fellowship training in minimally invasive spine surgery.
- Board certification: Board-certified physicians have a demonstrated track record of excellence in their fields. Spine surgeons, in particular, must have at least one year of training specific to spine surgery to become board-certified.
- A practice devoted to spine conditions: Ideally, work with a practice that focuses on spinal conditions, but at minimum, select a surgeon that devotes at least 50% of their practice to spine conditions, as this indicates they’re up-to-date on the latest surgical technologies and techniques.
- A good reputation: You can get a sense of what other patients think of a surgeon and their experience by reading reviews and evaluations online. You can also check with state licensing agencies to determine whether the surgeon has any outstanding complaints, malpractice claims, or disciplinary actions on their record.
- Outcomes: Your surgeon should be able to clearly explain the risks and benefits of the surgery, and what you can expect in the days and weeks after the procedure.
Above all, you should feel comfortable with a surgeon and how they interact with you. Pick someone who answers your questions, provides detailed information about your condition and your upcoming procedure, and listens to your concerns.
Contact New Jersey’s Leader in Robotic Spine Surgery
If you and your doctor determine you need surgical treatment for back pain or any other spinal issues, get in touch with Dr. Grigory Goldberg, MD. With over 16 years of experience as a surgeon and a track record of excellence in providing robotic spine surgery in NJ, he’ll design a treatment plan that supports your recovery and a better quality of life.
You can request an appointment with Dr. Goldberg and his team online. Our doctors accept most insurance plans, including workers’ compensation, no-fault, and PIP (personal injury protection) and same-day appointments may be available.
Robotic surgery is more than a passing trend. Learn more about the revolution of robotic spine surgery and its applications.
FAQs
Any time you’re considering surgery, you’re going to have questions. Your spine surgeon will happily answer any of your questions, but here is some basic information to get you started.
Is Robotic Surgery a Major Surgery?
Robotic spine surgery is a significant procedure and falls into the category of major surgery. However, it is more precise and less invasive than traditional surgery, so it’s more accurate and supports a shorter recovery period.
Who Is Not a Candidate for Robotic Spine Surgery?
Your surgeon will make the final determination as to whether you’re a candidate for robotic spine surgery in NJ, but in general, individuals who cannot tolerate anesthesia, are severely obese, are elderly, or have severe or complex conditions may not be able to undergo robotic-assisted surgery.
Are There Any Disadvantages To Undergoing Robotic Surgery?
The disadvantages to undergoing robotic surgery are minimal, as complications during this surgery are rare. If your surgeon encounters an issue, like scar tissue, that keeps them from proceeding with the minimally invasive operation like they normally would, they may need to “switch” approaches and make larger incisions. Otherwise, the risks are the same as with any other procedure, such as infection.
