Application of Three-Dimensional Virtual Reality Models to Improve the Pre-Surgical Plan for Robotic Partial...

Minimally invasive surgery for renal masses is complex and relies on two-dimensional (2D) computer tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans for surgical planning. We sought to determine if three-dimensional (3D) virtual reality (VR) models generated from imaging of patients undergoing robotic partial nephrectomy influenced presurgical planning approaches when compared to routine planning.

The initial 15 patients underwent robotic assisted laparoscopic partial nephrectomy performed by one urologic surgeon. All patients pre-operatively underwent a CT and/or MRI scan. A pre-operative surgical plan was then recorded. 3D VR models were generated from these scans and reviewed. A second surgical plan was developed based on the 3D VR images. A comparison was made between the two studies prior to surgical intervention. All final surgical plans were implemented based on the 3D VR imaging studies.

Six surgical approaches were changed based on the 3D VR images. Two surgical approaches were changed from a transperitoneal to a retroperitoneal approach and two from a retroperitoneal to a transperitoneal approach. Two patients had distinctive renal vasculature related to the renal cancers which were not appreciated on routine scans but were well delineated by VR imaging studies. As a result, the surgical approach for two patients was altered to accommodate the new findings.

Operative planning is paramount when performing robotic partial nephrectomy and developing a 3D surgical approach from 2D imaging can be difficult. Three-dimensional VR models affords the surgeon a 3D view prior to and during surgery and can ensure the selection of the appropriate surgical approach.