Publication Update, Winter 2017
- Posted on: Dec 15 2017
We enjoy partaking in research and education as much as we do interacting directly with our patients. This is reflected in our commitment to peer-reviewed data, both the consumption of it and the development of it. Our involvement in research studies and written papers enables us to sustain the high standard of care we have established in our San Francisco spinal surgery practice. It also affords us the opportunity to share our involvements with our patients.
Throughout 2017, the physicians in our practice have engaged in a number of publication processes. These include:
Clinical Observation and Use of Robot-Assisted Surgical Procedures
In recent years, the performance of numerous surgical procedures has been refined through the use of robot-assisted devices. This year, Dr. Kondrashov, the associate program director of the San Francisco Orthopaedic Residency Program at St. Mary’s Medical Center, has had the opportunity to see robot-assisted SI fusion surgeries in action.
The iFuse Implant System was combined with the the Mazor Robotics Renaissance Guidance System in the performance of the very first robot-assisted sacroiliac joint fusion in California. According to observation of this procedure, the combination of modalities resulted in greater accuracy and improved patient safety. Additionally, post-surgical stability was reportedly high. At the time of observation, St. Mary’s Medical Center was the only facility in the state in which this process was available.
An important point of the observation of this robot-assisted surgery is the expedited manner of performance and recovery; one hour of minimally invasive technique versus a more invasive operation that has historically needed days of recovery in the hospital.
Bone Density Observation for Improved Patient Outcomes
Dr. Kondrashov joined several other experts to compose the article, The Pedicles Are Not the Densest Regions of the Lumbar Vertebrae: Implications for Bone Quality Assessment and Surgical Treatment Strategy, published in AO Spine Global Spine Journal.
The article followed a cadaver study in which the bone mineral density of various lumbar vertebrae were observed via CT imaging. The intent of observation was to assess the integrity of commonly used structures in the treatment of osteoporosis using osseous fixation for lumbar fusion. Historically, pedicles and the vertebral body have been perceived as reliable fixation points. However, upon closer observation, researchers have discovered certain posterior elements may be used as beneficial supplements to the established fixation points.
Our surgical team is committed to optimal outcomes in patient care. To learn more about our practice and services, call (415) 750-5570.
Posted in: Spine Conditions, Spine Surgery
