The ScoliBot system has two robotic arms that semi-autonomously drill holes in individual vertebrae in procedures to straighten the spines of patients with conditions such as scoliosis or kyphosis. Leading the project, Professor Philip Breedon, MTIF and Nottingham Trent University says the technology could deliver higher levels of accuracy than achieved previously as a result of the robotic arms being able to move in unison and naturally with the patient’s spine during the operation while drilling.
‘Surgeons performing life-changing operations to correct spinal conditions have to ensure pinpoint levels of accuracy to avoid causing unnecessary and potentially serious injuries,’ he stressed.