Mayo Clinic Minute: How awake spinal surgery benefits patients

Mayo Clinic is among the first in the world to perform a spinal fusion surgery called TLIF with robotic assistance and incorporating spinal anesthesia, meaning the patient is awake.

Dr. Selby Chen, a Mayo Clinic neurosurgeon, says it’s important to have an innovative mindset.

Performing the surgery while the patient is still awake, eliminates the risks associated with general anesthesia, while also allowing for faster and better recovery. There are also advantages from a surgeon’s perspective.

The robotic assistance enhances the accuracy of screw placement, leading to improved safety for patients.
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