Back pain is a common issue affecting millions of people around the globe. With a huge population experiencing constant back pain, innovation in medical solutions has become necessary. Among all the innovations, artificial intelligence-assisted disc replacement surgeries are growing as a revolutionary approach to treating back pain.
Artificial intelligence (AI) has been making substantial differences in various medical fields, like orthopaedics and spine surgery. In disc replacement surgeries, AI plays a significant role in surgical planning, intra-operative guidance, and post-operative care. By using AI, surgeons can now achieve high precision, better outcomes, and less recovery time for patients suffering from chronic back pain.
According to a study published in the Indian Journal of Orthopaedics, around 60% of Indians face pain in their lower back at some point in their lives. Factors that contribute to this high prevalence include sedentary lifestyles, poor ergonomics, and the physical demands of certain jobs.
AI-powered disc replacement:
The process AI disc replacement surgeries include several stages where cutting-edge technologies are used to enhance precision:
Pre-surgical planning : A 3D model of a patient’s spine is created using AI algorithms to assess MRI and CT scans. AI algorithms are used to analyse MRI and CT scans to create a 3D model of the patient’s spine. This helps in comprehension of the unique anatomy and pathology of the spine and enables a customised surgical plan.
Intraoperative guidance : AI offers real-time guidance and feedback during surgery. Robotics and AI-powered navigation help surgeons in the accurate placement of artificial discs.
Post-operative care : AI is crucial for post-operative care. After examining post-operative data, its algorithms forecast possible complications and prompt action.
Benefits of AI in disc replacement surgeries
Enhanced precision and safety
AI enables a higher level of precision in disc replacement surgeries. With AI’s guidance, it is easy for surgeons to navigate complex spinal anatomies effectively and reduce the risk of human error. This precision translates into safer surgeries with fewer complications.
Reduced recovery time
Patients recovering from AI-assisted surgeries heal faster. As per a study by the National Institute of Medical Sciences Jaipur, patients who undergo AI-assisted surgeries had a 30% faster recovery as compared to traditional surgeries. This can be attributed to the minimally invasive nature of the procedure and accurate implant placement.
Improved patient outcomes
The use of AI in disc replacement surgeries has been connected with overall outcomes. A survey by the Indian Spine Association found that 85% of patients who underwent AI-assisted surgery reported pain relief within six months.
Challenges and future prospects
While AI-assisted surgeries have a positive impact, they also have a lot of challenges. The cost of AI technology and equipment is a barrier to its widespread adoption. Moreover, there is also a need for training for surgeons for efficient use of the technology.
Despite the challenges, the future of AI in spine surgery looks bright. Continuous advancements in AI technology are expected to make surgeries accessible and affordable for patients. Further, the ongoing research and development will only improve the precision and outcomes of procedures.
AI-assisted disc replacement surgeries are creating a revolution in the treatment of back pain in India. With an increase in precision, reduced recovery times, and improved patient outcomes, AI is all set to be an integral part of spinal surgeries. As there is an evolution in technology, AI-assisted disc replacement surgeries will become prevalent and offer hope to many patients who are suffering from back pain in India. With continuous advancements, AI-assisted disc replacement surgeries make way for a new era in orthopaedic care.
(The author, Dr.c Ashish Dagar, is the Consultant, Spine Surgery, at Manipal Hospital.)
