Image-guided spinal surgery system cleared

The FDA has OK’d software for planning and guiding image-based, computer-assisted surgery of the spine.

Kalamazoo, Mich.-based Stryker announced the thumbs-up Tuesday, saying its Q guidance system can be used in open or percutaneous spine operations for patients 13 and older.

The system features a navigation camera, segmentation aids, gesture recognition and “broad compatibility with various types of image sets,” the company says, adding that Q is optimized for use with the company’s Airo TruCT mobile CT scanner.

The company says the product is applicable to procedures across multiple specialties, including cranial, ENT and orthopedics.

Stryker’s president of spine operations, Robbie Robinson, says Q is designed to accommodate future compatibility with a family of products integrating robotics and intelligent handheld instruments.

Dave Pearson

Dave P. has worked in journalism, marketing and public relations for more than 30 years, frequently concentrating on hospitals, healthcare technology and Catholic communications. He has also specialized in fundraising communications, ghostwriting for CEOs of local, national and global charities, nonprofits and foundations.

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