A Connected, Four-Step Process

Rather than relying on guesswork in the operating room, Dr. Hobbs plans each case in advance and uses advanced technology to carry that plan out precisely. The result is a personalized approach designed for accuracy, smaller incisions, and more predictable results.

1 · Plan

Step 1 · Before Surgery

Plan

Every surgery begins with a thoughtful, detailed plan. Using AI-driven planning software, Dr. Hobbs and a dedicated clinical engineering team build a complete, patient-specific surgical plan — before a single incision is made.

AI-Driven Alignment Plan

A 2D alignment plan and 3D screw-trajectory plan are built from your own imaging, mapping out target alignment, implant placement, and any needed corrections.

Predictive Modeling

Predictive models anticipate how the rest of your spine will compensate after surgery, helping Dr. Hobbs choose the strategy most likely to give you a lasting result.

Patient-Specific Implants

From the approved plan, custom implants — including Carlsmed aprevo interbodies and Medtronic UNiD rods — are designed and 3D printed to match your unique anatomy.

Step 2 · During Surgery

Execute

In the operating room, the pre-operative plan is brought to life. Dr. Hobbs reviews the plan within the surgical software and uses image-guided navigation to place every screw and implant exactly as planned.

Image-Guided Navigation

Medtronic StealthStation navigation acts like a GPS for the spine — giving real-time, 3D guidance so instruments and implants are placed with exceptional accuracy through small, tissue-sparing approaches.

Coming Soon

Robotic Guidance

Robotic guidance — coming soon to Dr. Hobbs's hospital — will add a steady robotic arm that follows the surgical plan, further enhancing precision during placement.

Personalized Rod Template

The custom UNiD rod serves as a physical template in the OR, helping achieve the exact alignment that was planned for you.

Step 3 · During Surgery

Reconcile

Before finishing, Dr. Hobbs confirms in real time that the surgical goals have actually been achieved — not just assumed — so the result matches the plan.

LiveAlign Real-Time Tracking

A first-of-its-kind capability that shows vertebral motion as it happens, giving real-time visual confirmation that your alignment targets have been met — without additional radiation.

O-arm Imaging Verification

Intra-operative O-arm imaging provides a final check of alignment and confirms implants are placed accurately before surgery is complete.

Step 4 · Beyond Surgery

Analyze

The process doesn't end in the OR. Your post-operative imaging is measured and compared against the original plan, and outcomes are tracked over time — informing your follow-up care and continuously refining Dr. Hobbs's technique.

Post-Operative Analytics

Radiographic alignment data is reviewed to confirm the operative goals were achieved and to guide your recovery.

Longitudinal Outcome Tracking

Outcomes are followed over months and compared across cases, supporting continuous improvement and more predictable results for future patients.

Who This Approach Helps

This personalized, technology-guided process is especially valuable for complex and degenerative spine conditions — and for patients seeking the most precise, individualized care available.

Adult Spinal Deformity

Degenerative Spine (incl. MIS)

Revision of Failed Fusions

Cervical Spine

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Experience Personalized Spine Care

Find out whether this personalized, technology-guided approach is right for your spine condition. Call today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Hobbs.

(219) 250-5010

Monday – Friday · 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Crown Point Office

500 E. 109th Avenue
Crown Point, IN 46307

Chesterton Office

601 Gateway Boulevard
Chesterton, IN 46304

Portage Office

3691 Willowcreek Road
Portage, IN 46368