1'000 patients have benefited from O-arm technology

Since 2010, PD Dr. M. Assal and his team have been involved in the development of ultra-precise surgical technology using a three-dimensional navigation system (O-arm) during leg, ankle and foot operations. In June 2020, their 1,000th patient benefited from this technology, signalling its coming of age. They have just published a book on the subject.

How has the ASSAL Centre been a pioneer in this technology?

Initially reserved for back surgery, this device very quickly demonstrated its advantages in terms of safety and precision. Its technological transfer to the field of leg, ankle and foot surgery was a clear objective from the outset. However, this adaptation required the development of strategies and tools tailored to this new field of application with its specific requirements.

PD Dr. Assal and his team are the pioneers of this transition and regularly give lectures on the subject.

What is O-arm technology?

It’s a kind of GPS which provides the surgeon with precise, real-time guidance during operations, thanks to the creation of a 3D image of the area to be operated on. These images are generated in the operating theatre during the surgical procedure. They assist greatly with the highly accurate placement of implants and the continuous monitoring of the exact state of repair of a fracture, for example.

The device takes the form of a large ring that is positioned around the area to be operated on, i.e. the patient's leg or foot.

In what type of surgery is the O-arm used?

3D imaging is used in different types of surgeries:

• Minimally invasive surgery
• Reconstructive surgery
• Complex trauma to the ankle, foot or leg
• Congenital or acquired deformity
• Bone tumor

What are its advantages?

The O-arm technology allows for greater precision in manipulations and is less invasive. Indeed, since it is no longer necessary to "see" the area to be treated, some surgeries can be performed without having to make large openings.

The 3D images also make it possible to be certain that the preoperative goal has been precisely achieved during the operation. This ensures a high success rate for these procedures.

Finally, the surgeons and the operating theatre team are less exposed to radiation compared to conventional techniques. This is also advantageous for the patient's health.

Watch a video to see how our team of surgeons use the O-arm 3D imaging system in their daily work.