St. Luke’s unveils advanced imaging system for spine, bone surgeries

St. Luke’s Medical Center (SLMC) on Monday announced the acquisition of an advanced imaging system that promises safer surgeries for orthopedic and spine procedures, as well as faster imaging results than conventional systems.

The O-arm Surgical Imaging System, the first of its kind at SLMC in Quezon City, allows surgeons to scan a patient’s anatomy during surgery, unlike conventional imaging systems, which require scans to be done in a separate room.

The images are generated in three dimensions (3D) through a computer navigation system, giving surgeons a precise and clear view of the patient’s anatomy.

The newly acquired system is highly favorable for implant surgeries such as screw placement, as it can help mitigate injuries to the nerves and spinal cord, Mikhail Lew P. Ver, orthopedic spine surgeon at SLMC Quezon City and Bonifacio Global City in Taguig, told reporters during the launch event.

“This machine improves targeting and the placement of implants in the spine, making outcomes for patients much better, particularly in terms of overall mobility after surgery,” Mr. Ver said.

“Compared to older technology, where patients were scanned outside, accuracy can change when they are placed in the prone position. Intraoperative scans like this are much better,” he added.

Undergoing the O-arm Surgical Imaging System procedure is also faster, Mr. Ver said, taking less than 15 minutes, including proper positioning of the patient, while the scanning itself takes roughly one minute.

The procedure can also be conducted post-surgery.

Mr. Ver clarified that while the system is not new, the model acquired by SLMC is an improved version of previous generations.

It works similarly to a CT scan, using low-dose fluoroscopic radiation, and has been refined by its developer to produce 3D images of the spine or bones for better visualization.

As for the cost, the procedure will be an added expense for patients. However, its benefits outweigh the cost, as it helps mitigate possible surgical complications, Mr. Ver said.

Looking ahead, SLMC is considering making the O-arm Surgical Imaging System available at its center in BGC, Taguig. — Edg Adrian A. Eva