Robotic-assisted device in posterior spinal fusion for a high risk thoraculombar fracture in ankylosing spondylitis

Abstract

Fractures in ankylosing spondylitis (AS) are often difficult to treat and surgical treatment may be fraught with complications. We describe the use of a robotic-assisted device in the surgical treatment of an unstable L1 fracture in an elderly patient with chronic lymphocytic leukemia and AS. The postoperative course was uneventful and the patient was discharged after 3 days. The use of a robotic-assisted device in spine surgery is particularly indicated in difficult high risk cases. © 2014 by Korean Society of Spine Surgery.