Uploaded October 2023 | Updated September 2026, 3 hours ago
Stephan Kuslich from DocTech interviews Dan McPhillips from Captiva Spine about the Watchtower navigation system for spinal surgeries. Here are some key takeaways:
Watchtower Navigation System:
• Uses a 2D registration method to achieve 3D navigation.
• Doesn't require the purchase of an intraoperative scanner for images.
• Eliminates the need for open exposure to touch or photograph the spine.
• Economical as it obviates the need to buy an expensive CT scanner.
• It allows percutaneous procedures.
• Faster, cheaper, and more compact than alternatives.
Target Audience & Market Position:
• Ideal clients: Surgeons and community-based hospitals looking for spinal procedure navigation • systems but can't afford an interactive CT scanner.
• Has no direct competitors in terms of its unique registration method.
• The technology is not dissimilar from other navigation systems but stands out in how it's registered into the operating room.
Training & Operation:
• Uses image recognition software.
• CT scan is loaded, an AP and lateral X-ray are taken, and the operator matches the CT scan to the X-ray.
• The registration method is straightforward, enabling even sales reps or any individual to handle on-site training.
Captiva Spine's Background:
• Been around for 17 years, started by Bill Mitchell.
• Known for innovative technologies like cervical plating, screws, cages.
• Watchtower is a new addition, seen as a future requirement in spinal surgeries.
• Predicts companies not investing in navigation tech might not sustain for long in the industry.
Role of Technology in Modern Surgeries:
• Higher accuracy with navigation systems like Watchtower.
• Eliminates radiation in the operating room, making procedures safer and more efficient.
• Given the technological advancements, reduced radiation is now a desired feature in the operating room.
NASS Meetings:
• Dan McPhillips has attended many North American Spine Society (NASS) meetings over the years.
Observes that there have been ups and downs in the NASS meetings over the last 35 years.
• This year in particular is a less than lackluster year for physician attendance and engagement.
00:00 - Introduction
00:10 - Meet Dan McPhillips from Captiva Spine
00:31 - The Watchtower Navigation System
01:01 - 2D to 3D Navigation
01:35 - Economic and Procedural Benefits
02:05 - Ideal Clients
02:45 - Simple Training Process
03:25 - Captiva Spine's History
04:05 - The Future of Spinal Procedures
04:45 - Benefits of Reduced Radiation
05:25 - NASA and Technology
Stephan Kuslich from DocTech interviews Dan McPhillips from Captiva Spine about the Watchtower navigation system for spinal surgeries. Here are some key takeaways:
Watchtower Navigation System:
• Uses a 2D registration method to achieve 3D navigation.
• Doesn't require the purchase of an intraoperative scanner for images.
• Eliminates the need for open exposure to touch or photograph the spine.
• Economical as it obviates the need to buy an expensive CT scanner.
• It allows percutaneous procedures.
• Faster, cheaper, and more compact than alternatives.
Target Audience & Market Position:
• Ideal clients: Surgeons and community-based hospitals looking for spinal procedure navigation • systems but can't afford an interactive CT scanner.
• Has no direct competitors in terms of its unique registration method.
• The technology is not dissimilar from other navigation systems but stands out in how it's registered into the operating room.
Training & Operation:
• Uses image recognition software.
• CT scan is loaded, an AP and lateral X-ray are taken, and the operator matches the CT scan to the X-ray.
• The registration method is straightforward, enabling even sales reps or any individual to handle on-site training.
Captiva Spine's Background:
• Been around for 17 years, started by Bill Mitchell.
• Known for innovative technologies like cervical plating, screws, cages.
• Watchtower is a new addition, seen as a future requirement in spinal surgeries.
• Predicts companies not investing in navigation tech might not sustain for long in the industry.
Role of Technology in Modern Surgeries:
• Higher accuracy with navigation systems like Watchtower.
• Eliminates radiation in the operating room, making procedures safer and more efficient.
• Given the technological advancements, reduced radiation is now a desired feature in the operating room.
NASS Meetings:
• Dan McPhillips has attended many North American Spine Society (NASS) meetings over the years.
Observes that there have been ups and downs in the NASS meetings over the last 35 years.
• This year in particular is a less than lackluster year for physician attendance and engagement.
00:00 - Introduction
00:10 - Meet Dan McPhillips from Captiva Spine
00:31 - The Watchtower Navigation System
01:01 - 2D to 3D Navigation
01:35 - Economic and Procedural Benefits
02:05 - Ideal Clients
02:45 - Simple Training Process
03:25 - Captiva Spine's History
04:05 - The Future of Spinal Procedures
04:45 - Benefits of Reduced Radiation
05:25 - NASA and Technology
