Clinical efficacy and platform-specific analysis of robotic navigation systems in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a meta-analysis.

Robotic navigation has been increasingly adopted in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) corrective surgery, yet its benefits over conventional techniques and potential platform-specific differences remain uncertain. PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Embase, and CNKI were searched from inception to February 10, 2026 for comparative studies evaluating robot-assisted versus conventional AIS corrective surgery. Meta-analyses were conducted for pedicle screw accuracy and perioperative/clinical outcomes. Subgroup analyses were performed by robotic platform. Relative to conventional surgery, robotic assistance was associated with a longer overall operative time but a shorter screw-placement time. Robotic surgery also reduced fluoroscopy frequency and intraoperative blood loss. In radiographic outcomes, the robotic group showed a smaller Cobb angle change and a lower postoperative thoracic kyphosis. Regarding implant accuracy, robotic techniques yielded higher proportions of grade A + B screws and greater overall accuracy, with consistent advantages observed in both TiRobot and Mazor subgroups. Current evidence indicates that robot-assisted AIS correction improves pedicle screw placement accuracy and decreases radiation exposure and intraoperative blood loss without increasing complications, although total operative time may be prolonged. Well-designed prospective studies are required to further define platform-specific effectiveness and clinical value.