Frank Phillips, MD, director of the spine surgery division at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, examines the key trends in spinal technology and implant material today.
Question: What is the biggest spine technology trend for 2018?
Dr. Frank Phillips: Robotics have garnered much attention recently. Most currently available "spinal robots" do little more than aim screws and provide a marketing opportunity. I am optimistic that over the next few years we will see the development of true robotic technologies that improve accuracy, safety and efficiency of a variety of spinal procedures.
Q: Where do you see the biggest innovations in implant material?
FP: There is considerable interest in surface material science for interbody cages. Traditionally cages have been viewed as inert spacers. Interbody cages are receiving more attention for their role in deformity correction, indirect neural compression and also for their ability to participate in bony healing via their porous, nano-architecture. Recently, products have comprised metallic cages, but we are now seeing porous nano-PEEK designs as well as novel biomaterials emerging.
Q: Where do you see biologics and stem cells in spine headed for 2018 and beyond?
FP: As the drive toward stem cells continues, we will require rigorous and reputable studies to validate the precise role these technologies play in treating earlier stage spinal disorders.