St George Private Hospital is one of two hospitals in Australia that uses innovative medical technology for spinal surgery patients.
The hospital has a 3D Next Generation O-Arm, technology that enables a surgeon to have a three-dimensional view in real time, which enhances the accuracy of screw placement during surgery.
Neurosurgeon Mark Davies says it leads to improved accuracy, efficiency and patient safety.
“Combining the image quality of a CT scanner in the operating room with what is essentially a GPS for surgeons, this technology allows doctors to more easily navigate around the delicate spinal structures,” he said.
Sans Souci’s Pam Russell, 60, is the hospital’s first case study patient to undergo spinal surgery using the technology.
She suffers from Spinal Canal Stenosis and Spondylolosis – a narrowed spinal canal and slipped vertebrae.
Before the surgery, Ms Russell struggled to sleep or walk for long periods of time.
“Everything in my life was planned around my pain – and that meant two Nurofen and a hot shower every morning,” she said.
“It was a huge decision and spinal surgery is not something anyone takes lightly.
“I’m pleased I tried conservative methods like Pilates and physio which helped, but they weren’t enough in the end.
“A few weeks post-surgery, I am able to walk and stand for long periods without pain – it’s the best I’ve felt for years.”
