Aim:

This study aimed to evaluate the technical aspects of the Da Vinci Xi Surgical System in minimally invasive extreme lateral lumbar interbody fusion (XLIF) surgery in a swine model.

Material and methods:

Endoscopic discectomy and XLIF cage insertion were performed using a robot-assisted system. The time taken and the pros and cons of each step were recorded.

Results:

Operative time was 80 min. For the surgery, four ports were used: one for the endoscope camera, two for bipolar forceps, and one auxiliary port modified for discectomy. Discectomy was performed using a punch and curette, following which the cage was inserted through the auxiliary port. Cage position was manipulated using the C-arm. No complications or cage malposition’s were noted during the procedure.

Conclusion:

This study shows that the robot-assisted XLIF approach is safe and feasible, and it protected the neurovascular structures. High image quality was also obtained during the procedure.