Three-Dimensional Virtual Intraoperative Reconstruction: A Novel Method to Explore a Virtual Neurosurgical Field

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Medical Imaging
• 3D Reconstruction

Background:

• Neurosurgical anatomy acquisition relies on building 3D mental images from 2D sources.
• Existing 3D visualization tools lack user-controlled viewpoint manipulation.
• Understanding complex brain anatomy is challenging with current methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an innovative 3D reconstruction method for neurosurgery education.
• To enhance the learning and teaching of complex neurosurgical anatomy.
• To enable interactive exploration of surgical fields and anatomical structures.

Main Methods:

• Utilized 3D photogrammetry to convert intraoperative images into explorable 3D textured models.
• Developed a mobile application employing gyroscopic technology for simulated surgical microscope movements.
• Named the process 3D virtual intraoperative reconstruction (3D VIR).

Main Results:

• Detailed methodology for image acquisition, 3D reconstruction, and visualization presented.
• Demonstrated the creation of navigable 3D models from intraoperative data.
• Showcased the fusion of 3D intraoperative scenarios with neuroimaging data for hybrid images.

Conclusions:

• 3D VIR facilitates neurosurgical anatomy teaching and learning through direct exploration.
• The method produces interactive, navigable 3D textured models.
• These models aid in analyzing surgical approaches, regional anatomy, and reconstructing hybrid 3D scenarios.