3-D x-ray scanner makes spinal operations safer

A NEW three-dimensional imaging scanner has made spinal operations safer for patients of the Singapore General Hospital (SGH).

Called the O-Arm, the machine takes approximately 400 pictures in 30 seconds to construct an image of the spine that helps doctors insert implants, rods and screws more accurately during operations.

Spine surgeons at the hospital have been using the new device, which cost about US$1 million (S$1.48 million), since March. Some 50 spinal operations have been performed using it.

The scanner is made up of a computerised navigation system and a donut-shaped telescoping gantry which can take pictures of the patient's spine over 360 degrees.

source article