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Evaluation of augmented-reality based navigation for brain tumor surgery
Makoto Satoh1, Takeshi Nakajima1, Takashi Yamaguchi1
1Department of Neurosurgery, Jichi Medical University, Shimotuke-City, Japan.
Summary
Augmented reality navigation (ARN) in brain surgery shows improved usefulness with case selection and surgeon discussion. This technology aids superficial tumor resection and specific deep-seated tumor approaches.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Medical Technology
- Surgical Navigation
Background:
- Augmented reality navigation (ARN) is emerging in neurological surgery.
- Limited reports exist on its utility, particularly in brain tumor surgery.
- Further evaluation is needed to clarify its effectiveness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the usefulness of a developed hand-held ARN system.
- To clarify stages and approaches where ARN is beneficial in neurosurgery.
- To evaluate the impact of presurgical discussions on ARN utility.
Main Methods:
- A hand-held ARN system displaying 3D virtual structures on a tablet PC was used.
- The system was tested in 20 neurosurgery patients (10 unselected, 10 selected).
- Surgeons ranked ARN usefulness across different surgical stages.
Main Results:
- Case selection and presurgical discussions significantly improved ARN usefulness from 50% to 88%.
- Usefulness ratings increased across skin incision/craniotomy (50% to 90%), dura incision (67% to 100%), and intradural procedures (40% to 80%).
- ARN was effective for superficial tumors and specific approaches (transcortical, interhemispheric) for deep-seated tumors.
Conclusions:
- Tablet-type ARN is beneficial for skin incisions, craniotomy, dura incisions, and superficial tumor resection.
- ARN assists in transcortical and interhemispheric approaches for deep-seated tumors.
- Case selection and presurgical surgeon discussions are crucial for ARN efficacy.
