O-Arm

Istanbul

O-Arm in Istanbul is available at 2 hospitals in the Voumed network.

The O-arm is an intraoperative imaging system that rotates a full circle around the patient to produce real-time, high-resolution cross-sectional images while surgery is underway. In effect it brings a mobile CT-style scanner into the operating room, so the surgeon can see the exact position of bone, instruments and implants at the moment they are being placed, rather than relying only on images taken before the operation. It is used mainly in spine, brain and nerve, and orthopaedic trauma surgery, where it gives precise guidance for critical steps and supports greater accuracy and safety.

On this page

At a glance

Type: intraoperative 3D imaging system (mobile, ring-shaped scanner)
Used for: spine surgery, neurosurgery and orthopaedic trauma
Key benefit: real-time 3D verification of implant and instrument position
When it is used: during the operation, alongside the chosen surgical technique
Where it is used: leading accredited surgical centres abroad

What it is

The O-arm is a ring-shaped imaging device on a mobile frame that opens to fit around the operating table. Inside the ring, an X-ray source and detector rotate around the patient and combine many images into detailed two and three-dimensional views, similar to a CT scan but taken during surgery. These live images can be linked to a navigation system, so the surgeon sees instruments overlaid on the patient's own anatomy in real time. When not in use it folds away from the field, and the patient is positioned as usual for the planned operation.

How it works

After the patient is positioned and anaesthetised, the ring is brought around the relevant area and a short scan is taken. The system reconstructs the images almost immediately, giving the team an up-to-date 3D picture of the bones and the surgical site. As the operation proceeds, for example while screws or other implants are being placed in the spine, the O-arm can confirm their exact position before the procedure is completed, so any adjustment is made while the patient is still in theatre. This helps avoid repeat operations and reduces the need to rely on guesswork at the most delicate steps.

What it treats and who it helps

The O-arm supports surgery rather than treating a condition on its own. It is widely used in spine surgery, including the placement of pedicle screws and correction of deformities such as scoliosis, in brain and nerve surgery where precise localisation is essential, and in complex orthopaedic trauma where fractures and implants must be aligned accurately. It is particularly valuable in operations near critical nerves and the spinal cord, where confirming position during surgery adds an important margin of safety. The decision to use it is made by the surgical team based on the procedure planned.

Benefits and what to expect

By confirming implant and instrument position during the operation, the O-arm can improve accuracy, reduce the chance of misplacement and lower the likelihood of a second procedure to correct it. Combined with navigation, it can support smaller, more targeted approaches and help protect nearby nerves and tissue. For the patient, this technology is part of the surgery itself and requires no separate procedure or preparation; the care team explains the overall operation, recovery and follow-up as part of the surgical plan.

Frequently asked questions

These answers are general guidance and may vary by provider. Confirm the details with the hospital you choose.

What is the O-arm used for?

It provides detailed 3D images during surgery so the surgeon can see the exact position of bone, instruments and implants in real time. It is used mainly in spine, brain and nerve, and orthopaedic trauma operations.

Is it a separate procedure I need to prepare for?

No. The O-arm is used during your operation as part of the surgery. There is no separate appointment or special preparation beyond the usual preparation for the planned procedure.

How does it make surgery safer?

By confirming the position of implants and instruments while the operation is still in progress, it lets the surgeon make any needed adjustment immediately, which helps avoid misplacement and reduces the chance of a repeat operation.

Does it expose me to a lot of radiation?

The system uses low-dose imaging settings, and scans are taken only as needed during the operation. The surgical team balances the benefit of accurate, real-time imaging against keeping exposure as low as reasonably possible.

Does using the O-arm change my recovery?

The technology supports the surgery rather than changing the recovery itself. By helping the surgeon work accurately, it can contribute to a smoother result, but your recovery depends on the operation, your health and your rehabilitation.