April 24, 2026
Mayo Clinic's advanced technology helps optimize the outcomes of complex spinal procedures. Neurosurgeons with training in spinal surgery work with other specialists to provide durable repairs for patients age 14 and older.
"These are complicated surgeries. But we are resource-rich in terms of technology," says Joshua Bakhsheshian, M.D., M.H.A., a neurosurgeon at Mayo Clinic in Phoenix/Scottsdale, Arizona. "We want to improve our patients' quality of life and get them back to a functional life as soon as possible."
Predictive analytics, customized implants and robot-assisted intraoperative guidance help minimize complications. Those technologies, used enterprise-wide, also facilitate personalized treatment.
"Every patient is different," Dr. Bakhsheshian says. "Our patient-centered approach helps us meet the tailored needs of both younger and older patients."
Imaging and surgical expertise
Surgical planning starts with comprehensive imaging. "We look at the entire body, head to toe — not only the spine but also the knees, hips and legs," Dr. Bakhsheshian says.
Those results, coupled with a thorough physical evaluation, help determine if a patient is a surgical candidate. Surgeries are meticulously planned. "There's a lot of hard work before we even get to the operating room," Dr. Bakhsheshian says.
Artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms are used to precisely model a patient's spinal anomalies. AI also can help predict how an individual's spine might realign after surgical adjustment. "That sometimes allows us to use surgical implants on fewer spinal levels," Dr. Bakhsheshian says.
Computer simulations map out the correction that surgeons hope to achieve. Personalized implants are created based on that information.
Successful correction
Preoperative and postoperative X-rays of an adult with degenerative scoliosis with significant low back pain and radiculopathy. The patient had successful spinal reconstruction with posterior segmental instrumentation and fusion T9 to pelvis, with interbodies at L4-L5 and L5-S1.
"We don't have to bend the rods during surgery, which makes it faster and safer. Intervertebral spacers also can be 3D printed for the individual patient," Dr. Bakhsheshian says. "Hardware that fits the patient perfectly means fewer complications and better long-term outcomes."
Robot-assisted intraoperative guidance facilitates screw placement, to optimize rotational correction. When feasible, Mayo Clinic surgeons use an anterior, minimally invasive approach. "It's a much easier recovery for patients because it minimizes blood loss and it's muscle-sparing," Dr. Bakhsheshian says. "Some of our patients can get a spinal correction and leave the hospital on day 1."
The minimally invasive approach also allows for more motion-sparing spinal segments. "That's especially important for younger patients who often want to play sports," Dr. Bakhsheshian says.
Comprehensive team care
Mayo Clinic's multidisciplinary approach gives patients access to the range of care they need. Geneticists can advise younger patients whose spinal anomalies might have a genetic cause. Endocrinologists can work with patients with osteoporosis to optimize bone health before spinal surgery.
"We see patients who were rightly turned down for surgery elsewhere because it wasn't considered safe. But we're able to take the time and connect these patients with the resources that can optimize bone health so surgery can be performed safely," Dr. Bakhsheshian says.
Plastic and vascular surgeons might be involved with care, as needed. Intraoperative patient monitoring is performed by a subspecialized team.
Throughout the care process, Mayo Clinic specialists take time to discuss options with patients and their families. "We make ourselves available because having complex spinal surgery is a big decision," Dr. Bakhsheshian says. "We discuss what support patients will need after surgery and offer a patient education class. Patients learn about pain medications and the physical therapy they will need. There are no surprises."
Follow-up visits with the neurosurgeon are generally scheduled for three months, six months, one year, two years and five years after surgery. Telemedicine visits can be an option, with imaging performed by the patient's home healthcare professional. Mayo Clinic neurosurgeons are also available to provide second opinions for referring physicians and patients considering complex spinal surgeries.
Combining technology and compassion is a key aspect of care at Mayo Clinic. "Surgeries to correct spinal anomalies have carried a high risk of requiring revision because these procedures are so complicated," Dr Bakhsheshian says. "Our technology and expertise are aimed at making these complex surgeries the last spinal surgeries that patients will need for the rest of their lives."
For more information
Refer a patient to Mayo Clinic.