A team approach to spinal deformity surgery, from diagnosis to surgical planning to the operation itself, is part of what differentiates Mayfield Brain & Spine. At Mayfield, those collaborations provide a direct benefit to patients with the most severe spinal disorders.
“This kind of collaboration to create customized solutions for every patient is part of what differentiates our spine practice at Mayfield,” said neurosurgeon Dr. Michael Kachmann, who often teams with colleague Dr. Zach Tempel on spinal deformity cases. “By pooling the expertise of different surgeons on each individual case, we are ensuring the full spectrum of care and a variety of approaches that provides the best chance for a successful surgical outcome.”
Mayfield has used a team approach for decades, with surgeons regularly assisting each other at the operating table. In addition to spine surgery, that has included brain tumors and other cranial disorders. The approach has taken new life in our growing spinal deformity practice. Working together with colleagues at Mayfield, and with vascular surgeons or other specialists from the region’s leading hospitals, our surgeons use the team approach as a tool to help patients. That has attracted patients from around the country to consult Mayfield to treat their most intractable spinal disorders.
Spine surgeons review scans to correctly identify the source of the problem. These can include scoliosis, an unnatural side-to-side curvature of the spine; or kyphosis, an abnormal forward rounding. Once the surgeons reach a diagnosis, they map out a detailed plan for surgery. Factors can include the most optimal route to the specific area of the spine, from the front (anterior), back (posterior) or side (lateral). They collaborate in the design of patient-specific hardware to be used in the surgery, using artificial intelligence tools to customize rods and screws to each individual patient. Mayfield surgeons often consult with a vascular surgeon from one of the region’s leading hospitals to minimize the cutting of bone or muscle, and to promote a speedy recovery. Finally, they are able to round with patients after surgery.
The team approach has stood the test of time. The last 5-10 years have seen development of image guidance and robotics to create more precision and control for surgeons. The next half-decade, Dr. Kachmann said, will see the enhancement of AI tools for pre-operative planning, enabling minimally invasive surgery in more cases.
“The team approach is the beneficial approach to surgery,” Dr. Kachmann added. “Patients get the best of all worlds – superior care designed by a comprehensive surgical team.”