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Visualization, navigation, augmentation. The ever-changing perspective of the neurosurgeon.
A Boaro1, F Moscolo1, A Feletti1
1Section of Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Italy.
Brain & Spine
|October 17, 2022
Summary
Augmented reality (AR) in neurosurgery enhances visualization and navigation, offering a revolutionary perspective. AR applications in brain surgery show potential for safer procedures, improved surgical outcomes, and reduced costs.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Medical Technology
- Surgical Navigation
Background:
- The evolution of neurosurgery is intrinsically linked to advancements in visualization and navigation technologies.
- Augmented reality (AR) presents a novel approach by integrating digital information into the surgeon's real-world view.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a historical and technical overview of visualization and navigation in neurosurgery.
- To systematically review augmented reality (AR) applications within neurosurgery.
Main Methods:
- A historical overview of visualization and navigation tools in neurosurgery was presented.
- Systematic literature searches were conducted in PubMed and Scopus for AR applications in neurosurgery.
- The relationship between AR applications and existing visualization/navigation systems was analyzed, along with limitations.
Main Results:
- Visualization in neurosurgery evolved through surgical loupes, endoscopes, microscopes, and exoscopes.
- Navigation systems developed include frame-based and frame-less approaches.
- Augmented reality is most frequently applied in brain surgery (71.6%), particularly neuro-oncology (36.2%), often utilizing microscope-based systems (29.2%).
Conclusions:
- Advancements in visualization and navigation have led to more precise neurosurgical instruments.
- The development and clinical validation of AR applications represent a significant potential breakthrough for neurosurgery.
- AR technology promises to enhance surgical safety, improve surgeon experience, and reduce healthcare costs.
