The challenges
Conventional dual-position spine surgeries for lumbar conditions often involve repositioning the patient mid-procedure. According to Dr. Sanusi and his team, this led to:
Elimination of patient repositioning
Real-time 3D navigation for precise screw and cage placement
Ergonomic robotic arm assistance in challenging lateral positions
Minimized radiation exposure with optimized workflow and pre-draping imaging checks
Improved control and safety in drilling and instrument placement, even in non-ergonomic angles
Despite a few challenges at the beginning, Dr. Sanusi and his team have fostered an improved process which has culminated in a seamless workflow and an excellent working relationship with Brainlab.

The outcome
Having tried all major robotic systems on the market, the Cirq® robotic system, for me, is the best. The simplicity of the system and the software make it very easy to use. I have performed robotic spinal surgeries from atlas to sacrum with Cirq®. I specifically like the flexibility which enhances safety, like adjusting the docking point of the drill guide on the bone, as this provides a safe anchor and excellent haptic feedback before drilling.


With Cirq®-enabled single-position lateral surgery, hospitals and surgical centers can increase O.R. efficiency, improve patient safety, and enhance outcomes—without compromising accuracy.
One unexpected but very welcome result is that Cirq® is enabling Dr. Sanusi to easily train the next generation of spinal surgeons with robotic techniques.
*The statements made by the surgeon during this interview represent their personal opinion and experiences. These statements may not be supported by scientific evidence or peer-review research. For verified information about the device, please refer to the manufacturer’s official documentation or consult clinical guidances.
