Tobias Götschi

Spinal fusion surgery is a life-changing procedure for millions of patients suffering from severe spinal conditions, yet it carries significant risks, particularly regarding pedicle screw loosening, a complication that can lead to further surgeries, extended recovery periods, and increased healthcare costs. Current surgical planning tools primarily rely on anatomical and geometric assessments to guide surgical planning, yet they often overlook crucial biomechanical factors, such as the ability of surrounding bone to withstand mechanical stress. This gap frequently results in complications like pedicle screw loosening, fractures, or cage subsidence, necessitating revision surgeries. Consequently, surgeons typically depend on their personal experience rather than quantitative biomechanical assessments when determining optimal surgical strategies.

To address this clinical challenge, Tobias Götschi and his team at Balgrist University Hospital have developed SpinePlanner, a novel preoperative planning platform designed specifically to prevent screw loosening. Leveraging advanced patient-specific biomechanical simulations, SpinePlanner accurately identifies screws at high risk of loosening and assists surgeons in making precise, data-driven decisions. The system automates complex simulation processes, significantly reducing preparation time and offering intuitive visualization tools through an accessible web-based interface.

The SpinePlanner platform addresses a significant unmet need in spinal surgery. Up to 60% of patients with osteoporosis undergoing spinal fusion face the risk of screw loosening, translating to a substantial global healthcare burden with annual costs exceeding USD 700 million in the United States alone. By enhancing surgical precision, the SpinePlanner reduces the incidence of complications, minimizes the need for revision surgeries, and contributes to improved patient outcomes and reduced healthcare costs.

With the support of the UZH Entrepreneur Fellowship, the team will further develop the technology, engage extensively with the market, and lay a robust foundation for clinical validation and commercial partnerships. Ultimately, SpinePlanner aims to establish a new standard in spinal fusion surgery, empowering surgeons with precision tools to ensure safer, more effective treatments for patients worldwide.

Affiliation: Farshad Mazda

Start date: 1/2025