Lilavati Hospital launches AI-enabled robotic O-arm for complex spine surgery

Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre has launched a next-generation AI-enabled robotic O-arm(R) integrated with the Mazor X Stealth Edition. According to the hospital, the new technology is another important step in its commitment to innovation-led, patient-centred healthcare delivered through world-class clinical infrastructure.

The integrated platform brings together real-time 2D and 3D intraoperative imaging, AI-assisted surgical planning, robotic guidance and advanced navigation to assist surgeons during complex spine surgery. The hospital says the system automatically identifies and measures the internal structure of the spine, and strengthens planning by suggesting the right screw size, precise trajectory and correct implant placement. The surgeon, it says, retains full control over every clinical decision.

The software uses advanced algorithms to identify the vertebrae, pedicles, endplates and key anatomical landmarks within seconds. By drawing on thousands of validated surgical planning parameters, it suggests implant size and precise trajectory to surgeons. Surgeons can accept, modify or reject the suggestion based on clinical judgment. During surgery, the robotic system continuously tracks instruments and helps maintain the planned trajectory, while the O-arm(R) provides high-resolution imaging for real-time checks.

The platform is said to help in treating a range of spinal conditions, including degenerative spine disorders, scoliosis, kyphosis, spine trauma, tumours, infections and revision spine surgery. It is particularly useful in minimally invasive and complex surgeries that demand greater precision. Navigation-assisted robotic technology has demonstrated 95 to 99 per cent accuracy in placing spinal implants and pedicle screws, depending on clinical indications and the nature of the surgery.

Rajiv Mehta, permanent trustee of Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre, said on the occasion: "At Lilavati Hospital, in everything we do, we put patient safety first and continue to invest in world-level advanced technology that delivers clinical excellence."

Mehta added: "The addition of the AI-enabled robotic O-arm(R) with the Mazor X Stealth Edition reflects our commitment to giving our surgeons the best and most cutting-edge tools. This can bring greater precision, a streamlined surgical process and better medical outcomes for patients. The investment strengthens our vision of making world-class healthcare technology easily available to patients in India."

Dr Ravindra Karanjekar, chief executive officer of the hospital, said: "For patients, this technology is an important advance in the field of spine surgery. With AI-assisted planning, robotic guidance and real-time imaging, surgeons can perform highly precise surgery with greater confidence, especially in complex and minimally invasive cases."

According to Dr Karanjekar, more precise implant placement can reduce tissue trauma, lower the chance of repeat surgery, shorten hospital stays and help patients recover faster. He also said that although the technology provides excellent guidance, every decision related to surgery rests entirely with the surgeon concerned, so that clinical expertise remains the priority in patient care.

The hospital says that with the addition of the AI-enabled robotic O-arm(R) and the Mazor X Stealth Edition, it has strengthened its leading position in adopting cutting-edge medical technology. It says the technology advances precision treatment methods, improves patient health outcomes and sets a new benchmark for spine and neurosurgical care in India.