A new C-arm portable fluoroscopic (x-ray) machine

The first computer-navigated orthopaedic biopsy of its kind in North America was performed by an orthopaedic surgeon at Health Sciences North (HSN). The procedure, performed by Dr. Kevan Saidi, required special approval from Health Canada.

A CT scan of the patient was taken before the operation, which Dr. Saidi and a team of radiologists used to plan the procedure. During the surgery, another scan of the patient was taken using the hospital’s new C-arm portable fluoroscopic (x-ray) machine.

The two images were then married through special Stryker Navigation software which acted like a GPS, using real time 3-D images to guide the surgical team to the best location, within millimetres, to remove the tissue needed for the biopsy.

“As a surgeon, I was thrilled to be part of this innovative procedure, and to have the support of the hospital,” says Dr. Kevan Saidi. “Most importantly, our patient received access to a procedure that’s only available in a few centres in the world. Having the opportunity to perform innovative procedures like this demonstrates we have a surgical centre of excellence in Sudbury.”

“This is the future of surgery,” says Dr. Denis Roy, President and CEO of the HSN.
“We want to be leaders in the development of new, innovative surgical procedures, using the latest technologies. That is why we invested in state-of-the-art surgical suites and equipment. It is also why we are investing in a new Learner Space with a simulation Lab,” added Dr. Roy.

The new technology also allowed the surgery to be done in a “closed” fashion, meaning only a minimal incision was required for the procedure. Less invasive techniques mean less pain and scarring for patients, faster recovery times, and a shorter length of stay in hospital.