Funded through the strategic project call StartHU by the CHU de Toulouse, the arrival of a motorized digital-assisted radio C-arm generating 3D imagery marks a significant leap forward in the treatment of 5 to 16-year-old patients suffering from severe spinal deformities.
The objective of transitioning from 2D to 3D vision was to assist pediatric spinal surgeries, thereby optimizing the guidance and ensuring the precise positioning of spinal implants. According to Pr Tristan Langlais, this goal was quickly achieved, leading to several direct benefits for young patients.
« This imaging mode allows for the highest possible level of personalization for each intervention, effectively ensuring optimal safety in implant placement, » states Pr Langlais. He also notes that this technology now enables the treatment of cases that were considered complex a decade ago. Furthermore, the number of post-operative control X-rays has decreased, resulting in lower overall dosimetry for young patients.
Since January 2025, the 3D imaging system has been utilized in 95% of spinal implant operations, representing between 150 and 200 interventions annually. « It runs like clockwork! » concludes Pr Langlais.
The availability of this robotic 3D imaging within the pediatric operating suite has also enhanced the skills of the medical teams and positively impacted clinical research. Now a standard for patient care, it positions the CHU de Toulouse as an international center of excellence for the management of spinal deformities.
