Robotic Navigation: Legal Considerations

Robotic navigation has become increasingly mainstream in spinal deformity surgery as a tool to plan surgical technique in deformity correction, improve efficiency and accuracy of implant placement, and limit radiation use in the operating room. With the adoption of any new technology come legal considerations and the potential for litigation. Prioritizing patient care and practicing evidence-based surgery should always be the surgeon’s priority—and in doing so consistently we help our patients and concurrently may avoid litigation. Incorporating robotic technology is safe and effective, and legal risk can be mitigated by using proven technologies for FDA-approved indications with adequate training, attention to proper technique and procedure, and good surgical indications.