By Siamak Yasmeh, MD | Orthopedic Spine Surgeon in Los Angeles
As an orthopedic spine surgeon caring for patients across Greater Los Angeles, precision is at the core of my approach to spine care. The spine is a complex and delicate structure, surrounded by critical nerves and blood vessels, and even small variations during surgery can influence recovery and long-term outcomes.
One advancement that has meaningfully improved precision in spine surgery is robotic-assisted technology. When used appropriately, robotic systems allow surgeons to combine detailed imaging, advanced navigation, and surgical expertise to perform certain spinal procedures with a high degree of accuracy. While robotics never replace the surgeon, they can enhance planning, consistency, and safety in select cases.
In this article, I’ll explain how robotic-assisted spine surgery works, when it can be used, its potential benefits and limitations, and what patients should understand when considering this technology.
What Is Robotic-Assisted Spine Surgery?
Robotic-assisted spine surgery uses advanced technology to support the surgeon during specific parts of a spinal procedure—most commonly during the placement of instrumentation such as screws. These systems rely on detailed imaging, obtained from intraoperative imaging, to create a three-dimensional map of a patient’s spine.
Before surgery, I use this information to carefully plan implant placement based on each patient’s unique anatomy. During the procedure, the robotic system helps guide instruments along those planned paths with a higher level of precision than would otherwise be possible. Throughout the surgery, I remain fully in control of all decisions and surgical steps.
How Robotics Are Used in Spine Surgery
Robotic assistance is most commonly used in spinal procedures where accuracy is especially important.
Pedicle Screw Placement
One of the most common uses of robotics in spine surgery is pedicle screw placement. These screws help stabilize the spine and must be positioned precisely to avoid irritation or injury to nearby nerves. Robotic guidance can improve consistency and accuracy, particularly in anatomically complex regions of the spine.
Spinal Fusion and Complex Procedures
Robotic technology may also be used during spinal fusion procedures and in more complex cases, such as spinal deformity correction or revision surgery. In these situations, altered anatomy or prior surgery can increase technical difficulty. Robotic guidance can assist with careful planning and execution, helping surgeons navigate challenging anatomical landscapes more safely and predictably.
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Robotics are often used to support minimally invasive spine surgery, which involves smaller incisions and less disruption of surrounding tissue. For appropriate patients, minimally invasive approaches may result in less blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery.
Potential Benefits of Robotic-Assisted Spine Surgery
Improved Precision and Consistency
One of the most significant benefits of robotic-assisted spine surgery is improved accuracy. Preoperative planning and guided execution help reduce variability and support consistent implant placement, which is especially important in complex or minimally invasive procedures.
Reduced Radiation Exposure
Traditional spine surgery often relies heavily on real-time X-ray imaging. Robotic systems that use preoperative imaging and navigation may reduce the need for continuous intraoperative imaging, potentially lowering overall radiation exposure for both patients and surgical teams.
Support for Better Recovery
Greater accuracy during surgery may help reduce complications related to implant placement and lower the likelihood of revision surgery. Advances in robotic-assisted spine surgery continue to be evaluated in peer-reviewed research published in journals such as Spine and The Spine Journal.
- Spine https://journals.lww.com/spinejournal
- The Spine Journal https://www.thespinejournalonline.com
Important Limitations to Understand
Robotic-assisted spine surgery is not the right choice for every patient or every condition.
- Surgeon experience matters. Robotic systems require specialized training and should complement—not replace—strong surgical fundamentals.
- Availability varies. Not all hospitals or surgical centers offer robotic technology.
- Technology is a tool, not a guarantee. Outcomes depend on accurate diagnosis, patient selection, surgical planning, and individualized care.
In my practice, I recommend robotic assistance only when it offers a meaningful benefit for my patients.
Ethical and Patient-Centered Care
Some patients assume robotic surgery is automatically better or safer. In reality, robotics are simply one of many tools available to support spine surgery. The most important factor remains the surgeon’s expertise and the appropriateness of the treatment plan.
I believe in transparent conversations with my patients—discussing when robotic assistance may be helpful and when it is not necessary. Ethical spine care means using technology thoughtfully and always prioritizing the patient’s best interests.
Frequently Asked Questions About Robotic Spine Surgery
Is robotic spine surgery safer than traditional surgery?
Robotic assistance may improve precision in certain procedures, which can help reduce specific risks. However, safety depends on the surgeon’s experience, the procedure being performed, and the individual patient.
Does the robot perform the surgery?
No. I perform the surgery at all times. The robotic system assists with planning and guidance but does not operate independently.
Is robotic spine surgery more expensive?
Robotic technology does not add any extra cost for the patient..
Am I a candidate for robotic-assisted spine surgery?
Not every patient or condition requires robotic assistance. The best way to determine candidacy is through a personalized evaluation and discussion.
The Future of Robotics in Spine Surgery
Robotic technology continues to evolve, with advancements in imaging, navigation, and real-time feedback systems. As clinical evidence grows, robotics are likely to play an increasingly important role in spine care—always as an extension of surgical expertise, not a replacement for it.
Robotic-assisted spine surgery represents an important advancement in orthopedic care, offering improved precision and enhanced safety for appropriately selected patients. When used thoughtfully, robotic technology can support high-quality, patient-centered spine care.
If you are considering spine surgery, I encourage you to learn more about my background and approach to care and to discuss all available treatment options during a personalized consultation.
About Dr. Siamak Yasmeh
Dr. Siamak Yasmeh is a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon providing comprehensive spine care to patients throughout Greater Los Angeles. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from UCLA and his medical degree from USC’s Keck School of Medicine, followed by an orthopedic surgery residency at Los Angeles County Medical Center. He completed advanced fellowship training in spinal surgery at the University of Wisconsin–Madison.
Dr. Yasmeh is committed to providing honest, personalized care and helping patients improve their quality of life through thoughtful, evidence-based treatment.
Sources & Further Reading
- Spine – https://journals.lww.com/spinejournal
- The Spine Journal – https://www.thespinejournalonline.com
- World Neurosurgery – https://www.journals.elsevier.com/world-neurosurgery
- Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine – https://thejns.org/spine
- Global Spine Journal – https://journals.sagepub.com/home/gsj
