Bay Shore Hospital First In Suffolk County To Use Robot For Spinal Fusion

BAY SHORE, NY — South Shore University Hospital has become the first hospital in Suffolk County to perform spinal fusion surgery using MAKO robotic-assisted technology, according to Northwell Health.

Orthopedic spine surgeons Dr. Daniel Brandenstein and Dr. Brandon Petrone performed the procedure on a 70-year-old woman suffering from lumbar stenosis and spondylosis, conditions that can cause chronic back pain, numbness and limited mobility.

The two-level lumbar spinal fusion, involving the L3 through L5 vertebrae in the lower back, took approximately three hours to complete, hospital officials said.

The MAKO robotic system uses advanced 3D imaging and robotic guidance to help surgeons position screws more precisely during spinal procedures.

"The MAKO robot represents the future of spine surgery," Brandenstein said. "The precision of robotic-assisted screw placement is a game changer for our patients."

According to hospital officials, the technology is designed to improve the accuracy and efficiency of screw placement, potentially reducing blood loss and time under anesthesia.

The system also provides detailed 3D imaging during surgery, giving surgeons CT-quality views of the spine without requiring separate imaging procedures.

"Being part of the first team to bring this technology to Suffolk County is incredibly rewarding," Petrone said. "The integration of 3D intraoperative imaging with the MAKO robotic system gives us real-time, CT-quality visualization during the procedure."

Although MAKO technology has been used extensively in hip and knee replacement surgeries, its application in spinal procedures is relatively new.

"By bringing this robotic technology to our community, we are ensuring that our patients have access to the most advanced surgical options available, right here, close to home," said Irene Macyk, president of South Shore University Hospital.

The hospital plans to expand its robotic-assisted spine surgery program to serve additional patients across Long Island.