Norton Leatherman Spine Center surgeon makes history

LOUISVILLE, Ky. – A surgeon with Norton Leatherman Spine Center is making history with next-generation technology. 

Dr. Jeffrey L. Gum became the first person in the world to perform spine surgery using a robotic-assisted platform known as the ‘Medtronic Stealth Axis Surgical System.’

Experts say the system is designed to provide greater precision and accuracy than previous technology.

“Overall, the big thing it does is tie in a seamless planning opportunity or user interface and allows us to track the patient’s movement in real time to adjust if there’s any motion in the patient. And it allows us to be more accurate and more precise with placing our screws,” Gum said

He also recognized the accomplishment for everyone involved in the breakthrough while highlighting the true goal behind it.

“A better outcome for the patient. That’s what matters the most, right? So it’s been a great opportunity to be involved in the design process, to have Norton and Medtronic come together to work really hard to make this happen. But overall, the number one and most important thing is better outcomes for the patient,”

Gum also said one of his goals is to help shape the future of spine surgery, which he feels he’s doing after a historic moment like this.