What Is CT Robotic Spine (Navigation CT)?
CT Robotic Spine, also called Navigation CT, is a special pre-operative CT scan used for computer-assisted and robotic spine surgery.
This CT scan provides high-resolution, 3D images of the spine, which are used by navigation or robotic systems to guide accurate screw placement and surgical planning.
📌 Unlike routine spine CT, this scan is done with navigation-specific protocols to ensure surgical precision.
Why CT Robotic Spine Is Done
CT Robotic Spine is performed to:
✔ Plan accurate pedicle screw placement
✔ Reduce risk of nerve injury
✔ Improve surgical accuracy and safety
✔ Help in complex spinal deformities
✔ Reduce revision surgery rates
✔ Enable minimally invasive spine surgery
📌 In simple words:
This CT scan acts as a GPS system for the spine surgeon.
Who Needs CT Robotic Spine Scan?
CT Robotic Spine is advised for patients undergoing:
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Spinal fusion surgery
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Degenerative spine disease
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Scoliosis and kyphosis
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Spinal trauma
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Spondylolisthesis
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Revision spine surgery
⚠️ It is not done for routine back pain.
CT Robotic Spine Procedure (How the Scan Is Done)
1️⃣ Patient Preparation
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No fasting required
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Remove metal objects
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Explain importance of staying still
2️⃣ Patient Positioning
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Supine position
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Neutral spinal alignment
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Immobilization if required
📌 Proper positioning is essential for navigation accuracy.
3️⃣ Scan Coverage
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Only the planned surgical levels
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One vertebra above and below the surgical site
4️⃣ Scan Technique
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Non-contrast CT
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Thin slices
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High-resolution bone imaging
Technical Parameters (For Radiology Technologists)
📌 Reconstruction
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Bone algorithm
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Sharp kernel
📌 FOV
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Focused, not oversized
📌 Export
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DICOM format compatible with navigation system
Common Robotic Spine Systems Using CT Navigation
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Mazor Robotics
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ROSA Spine
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ExcelsiusGPS
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O-arm + Navigation
📌 CT data is integrated with these systems.
Is Radiation Dose High in Navigation CT?
No.
Navigation CT follows dose optimization protocols.
📌 Accurate surgery reduces repeat surgeries, which overall benefits the patient.
Role of the Radiologist in CT Robotic Spine
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Protocol approval
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Radiation safety
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Detection of fractures, infection, tumors
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Image quality verification
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Communication with spine surgeon
Advantages of CT Robotic Spine
✔ High surgical accuracy
✔ Reduced complication rates
✔ Better implant placement
✔ Minimally invasive approach
✔ Faster recovery
Conclusion
CT Robotic Spine (Navigation CT) is a cornerstone of modern spine surgery.
It enables surgeons to operate with millimeter precision, improving safety and outcomes.
For radiology professionals, strict adherence to protocol and image quality standards is essential for successful navigation-guided spine surgery.
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