Computer aided surgery for percutaneous nephrolithotomy: Clinical requirement analysis and system design

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Medical Engineering
• Surgical Navigation

Background:

• Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is a standard treatment for renal stones, often superior to open surgery and lithotripsy.
• Current PCNL relies on 2D imaging, hindering precise access to the renal collecting system.
• This limitation increases risks of bleeding, organ injury, and procedural failure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the challenges of 2D visualization in PCNL.
• To propose a novel workflow for a stereotactic needle guidance system.
• To enhance planning and visual guidance for accessing the kidney's collecting system.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of clinical requirements for improved PCNL access.
• Development of a stereotactic needle guidance approach.
• Integration of intuitive planning and visual guidance for surgical navigation.

Main Results:

• The proposed workflow facilitates the introduction of a stereotactic needle guidance system.
• The system aims to provide more intuitive planning and visual guidance.
• Potential to reduce complications associated with imprecise access in PCNL.

Conclusions:

• A stereotactic needle guidance system offers a solution to the 2D visualization limitations in PCNL.
• This technology can improve the safety and efficacy of accessing the renal collecting system.
• Further development and implementation are expected to benefit PCNL procedures.