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[A comparison between anatomical landmark registration and surface registration for computer-assisted endoscopic
Huan Jia1, Qi Chen, Rongping Cao
1Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, 200092, China. huan.jia.orlhns@gmail.com
Summary
Surface registration (SR) offers superior accuracy in computer-assisted endoscopic sinus surgery (CAESS), while anatomical landmark registration (ALR) is quicker and more convenient. Both methods demonstrate the value of navigation systems in surgery.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Medical Imaging
- Surgical Navigation
Background:
- Computer-assisted endoscopic sinus surgery (CAESS) utilizes navigation systems to enhance surgical precision.
- Registration techniques, including anatomical landmark registration (ALR) and surface registration (SR), are crucial for aligning pre-operative imaging with the patient's anatomy.
- Evaluating the trade-offs between different registration methods is essential for optimizing CAESS procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the clinical advantages and disadvantages of anatomical landmark registration (ALR) and surface registration (SR) within computer-assisted endoscopic sinus surgery (CAESS).
- To assess the impact of registration method on preparatory time and target registration error (TRE).
- To analyze the convenience and overall value of each registration technique in CAESS.
Main Methods:
- A comparative study involving 26 patients undergoing CAESS.
- Recording and comparing preparatory times for both ALR and SR techniques.
- Measuring and analyzing mean target registration errors (TRE) at specific anatomical landmarks for both methods.
- Assessing the convenience and perceived value of each registration method by the surgical team.
Main Results:
- CAESS was successfully implemented in all 26 cases without complications.
- Surface registration (SR) required an average preparation time of 8.5 minutes, compared to 6.5 minutes for anatomical landmark registration (ALR).
- Target registration errors (TRE) were generally comparable, with SR showing slightly lower errors at some landmarks, though ALR had higher TRE at the posterior inferior turbinate (2.48 mm vs 2.03 mm).
- The navigation system minimally affected surgery in 92.2% of cases, with its value affirmed in 84.6%, primarily linked to TRE.
Conclusions:
- Surface registration (SR) demonstrated superior accuracy compared to anatomical landmark registration (ALR) in CAESS.
- Anatomical landmark registration (ALR) offered greater convenience and required less preparation time.
- The value of navigation systems in CAESS is attributed to accuracy, convenience, and minimal surgical disturbance, with greater utility in complex cases.
