Minimally invasive surgery is rapidly becoming the preferred surgical treatment for many brain and spine conditions and for illnesses such as heart disease or cancer. With the help of high-tech imaging and sophisticated navigation or robotic systems, surgeons can now minimize damage to surrounding tissue and operate with greater precision than ever before. For most patients, the benefits of minimally invasive surgery include small incisions, a fast recovery, and a better surgical outcome than with many conventional approaches.

Neuro-navigation, as it pertains to spine surgery, describes computer-assisted technologies that enable the surgeon to "navigate" within the spinal column during surgery. The technology is similar to a global positioning system (GPS). High-tech imaging systems give surgeons a three-dimensional view of anatomy, enhancing the visual field and allowing the surgeon to track/guide the position of instruments more accurately. In short, neuro-navigation feeds the surgeon real-time intra-operative positioning information. Having a guidance system can help the surgeon map out the surgery beforehand and possibly reduce the amount of time a patient spends on the operating table. Neuro-navigation also promotes patient safety by making it possible for the surgeon to see the position of nearby critical structures throughout the procedure.

Neuro-navigation Step-by-Step

• A CT scan or MRI (of the operative site) is done a day or so before surgery
• The surgeon downloads images onto the computer, then builds a three-dimensional model that correlates to the patient's anatomy.
• Just before surgery, the computer model is matched to the patient. Images are displayed on a monitor in the operating room.
• Throughout the surgery, real-time information is displayed. This can increase accuracy, e.g., help the surgeon gauge the proximity of the instruments to arteries, the spinal cord, etc.

Piedmont surgeons are leaders in the development of minimally invasive techniques. With the aid of advanced technology, we offer our patients the potential for better surgical outcomes and positive surgical experiences.