SOUTHAMPTON surgeons are the first in the UK to use groundbreaking GPS navigation technology for spinal surgery.

Experts at University Hospital Southampton are the first in the UK to perform spinal surgery using 3D technology similar to GPS navigation systems used in self-driving cars.

The state-of-the-art equipment, known as the 7D Surgical System, enables surgeons to see the spine using highly-developed camera technology which creates a three-dimensional real-time image in just a few seconds.

This allows the user to visualise the precise placement of surgical tools and implants – increasing accuracy and reducing the risk of errors.

It was used by Chris Dare, spinal surgeon and clinical lead for the Wessex Spinal Service at University Hospital Southampton, who said the technology will become the “gold standard” in spinal surgery due to it being accurate, fast, cost-effective and radiation-free.

Mr Dare said: “This technology enables us to insert spinal implants around vital structures with even greater precision. Highly complex interventions can be carried out faster and with fewer complications.

“In addition to improving patient safety, the new high-tech system has the added advantage of reducing harmful radiation exposure for both patients and staff.

“We are delighted Southampton is the first in the UK to evaluate the kit as it supports our continued efforts to adopt revolutionary technology and improve clinical outcomes for our patients.”

Mrs Myra Edmunds, 68, from Woolston in Southampton, is the first patient in the UK to undergo this type of spinal surgery.

“I have suffered with nerve pain in my legs for six years and this has had a massive impact on my quality of life and has been quite debilitating at times,” she said.

“Mr Dare has been amazingly supportive and we have spoken through all the treatment options available to me at length.

“Spinal surgery is quite a daunting one because of the risks involved so when I was offered this option, which could correct the problem altogether with reduced risk of error, it was a no-brainer.”