The Spinebot—A Robotic Device to Intraoperatively Quantify Spinal Stiffness

Abstract Degenerative spine problems and spinal deformities have high socio-economic impacts. Current surgical treatment is based on bony fusion that can reduce mobility function. Precise descriptions of the biomechanics normal, deformed, degenerated segments under in vivo conditions are needed to develop new approaches preserve This study developed a system intraoperatively measures three-dimensional segmental stiffness patient's spine. SpineBot, parallel kinematic robot, was transmit loads adjacent vertebrae. A force/torque load cell mounted SpineBot measured moment applied segment calculated stiffnesses. The accuracy characterized ex by comparing its measurement five ovine specimens measurements obtained with reference testing system. apply torques up 10 N·m along all anatomical axes total range motion about 11.5 deg ± 0.5 lateral bending, 4.5 0.3 flexion/extension, 2.6 axial rotation. SpineBot's noisier than system, but correlation between (R2 > 0.8). In conclusion, comparable current systems take intraoperative measurements. improve our understanding patients who pathology interest, these natural physiological environment, giving us information essential developing “nonfusion” products.