Abrazo West Campus implements advanced technology for spine surgery treatment

Abrazo West Campus recently became the first hospital in Arizona to offer the new Loop-X robot and Brainlab navigation system for spine surgery. The system is utilized in spine surgery operating rooms where live x-ray imaging of anatomic structures such as bony anatomy and soft tissue is required.

The Brainlab Loop-X system is a treatment option for patients with severe back pain who have failed non-operative treatment and are seeking an improved quality of life with less pain. The technology can be used for a range of spine procedures, including posterior cervical, thoracic, lumbar fusion, sacroiliac joint, joint fusion, lumbar interbody fusion, or Scoliosis deformity correction.

Loop-X is an imaging platform that can robotically move in position around the patient to provide 2D and 3D images of their anatomy. Simultaneously, the Brainlab software works with the imager to assist surgeons with precise movements during procedures. “The system works in sync with other devices in the OR, moving with the procedure and on the surgeon’s command, enhancing the surgical experience,” said Dr. Brian Vernon, Abrazo Spine Surgeon.

“The device robotically aligns to the most critical patient anatomy, so patients do not have to be moved to be scanned with Loop-X. In addition, independently moving imaging source and detector panels help reduce the amount of radiation exposure,” he said. Loop-X uses cone-beam computed tomography, a technology similar to the traditional CT scans except the x-ray beam is projected in the shape of a cone and can cover large scan areas of the patient in a single rotation. The cone shaped beam of Loop-X can be manipulated to spare surrounding tissue from unnecessary radiation, according to its manufacturer.

“We are excited to be the first hospital in Arizona with this advanced system and privileged to be among the first 10 installations in the country. This investment in our high-acuity and complex surgical capabilities will allow the Abrazo West spine program to deliver advanced technology to patients right here in the West Valley,” said Hans Driessnack, Abrazo West Campus Chief Executive Officer.