Advances and innovations in computer-assisted head and neck oncologic surgery

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Surgical Technology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Computer-assisted surgery (CAS) is increasingly vital in craniomaxillofacial surgery for head and neck malignancies.
• Effective oncologic treatment relies on detailed imaging (CT, CBCT, MRI) and navigation systems for precise tumor targeting.
• CAS enables image-guided biopsies, resections, and reconstructions, improving surgical accuracy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate the clinical advancements and benefits of CAS in daily craniomaxillofacial oncologic surgery.
• To develop and evaluate a novel 3D planning and navigation software for craniofacial tumor treatment.
• To assess the application of CAS across five distinct oncologic surgical categories.

Main Methods:

• Application of CAS in five oncologic surgical categories from 2005-2011: guided biopsy, image-controlled resection, tumor mapping, reconstruction, and oral rehabilitation.
• Utilized computed tomography, cone-beam computed tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.
• Employed computer-assisted, infrared-based navigation systems for pre- and intraoperative guidance.

Main Results:

• Successful preoperative planning and image data import for navigation were achieved in all cases.
• Precise intraoperative infrared-based navigation was successfully implemented across all five surgical categories.
• No complications were reported during the application of CAS in the studied oncologic procedures.

Conclusions:

• Image-guided navigation in head and neck oncologic surgery offers a precise and safe method with real-time anatomic orientation.
• CAS is crucial for accurate tumor surgery, enabling precise biopsies, resections, and reconstructions.
• The integration of CAS in craniofacial reconstructive surgery promises significant advancements in multidisciplinary oncologic treatment.