Implementation and evaluation of hyperelastic model for surgical simulator and navigation

Area of Science:

• Medical Simulation
• Computational Mechanics
• Surgical Technology

Background:

• Current laparoscopic surgical simulators often use linear schemes like co-rotated Finite Element Method (FEM), which have limitations for advanced real-time applications.
• Future medical simulations require enhanced capabilities, including subtle force sensing and accurate prediction of organ deformation during surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate different computational models for advanced real-time surgical simulation.
• To identify the most suitable model for precise force sensing and organ deformation prediction in surgical simulators.

Main Methods:

• Comparison of co-rotated FEM, nonlinear FEM, and hyperelastic models.
• Evaluation of models based on accuracy and processing time for real-time applications.
• Assessment of implementation feasibility on standard computer hardware.

Main Results:

• The hyperelastic model demonstrated superior suitability for advanced surgical simulation requirements.
• Co-rotated FEM and nonlinear FEM showed comparable performance in processing time and accuracy.
• Real-time implementation of the hyperelastic model is feasible using current off-the-shelf personal computers.

Conclusions:

• The hyperelastic model is recommended for developing next-generation surgical simulators demanding high fidelity.
• Advanced computational models are crucial for meeting the increasing demands of medical simulation in clinical practice.
• The integration of sophisticated models like the hyperelastic model is achievable with existing technology, paving the way for improved surgical training and planning.