Evolution of robotics in spine surgery: A historical perspective

The use of robotics in spinal surgery holds tremendous potential with continued growth since 1985. To date, there are numerous devices approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for spinal operations. Robotic surgery enables improved patient outcomes in comparison to conventional methods. These robots can have superior spatial resolution, geometric accuracy, and faster implant placement. The initial design process and various stages of development are discussed, along with a historical synopsis. A review of the most commonly used FDA-approved robots in spinal surgery is outlined.