Three-Dimensional Visualization With Virtual Reality Facilitates Complex Live Donor Renal Transplant

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Radiology
• Surgical Planning

Background:

• Living donor renal transplantation is a complex procedure requiring detailed anatomical assessment of the donor.
• Contrast-enhanced computed tomography angiography (CTA) is crucial for evaluating donor renal anatomy, but interpretation can be challenging with complex vasculature.
• Difficulties in CTA interpretation can lead to donor disqualification, limiting transplant options.

Observation:

• A potential living kidney donor was initially disqualified due to complex anatomy identified on CTA.
• The donor's motivation to donate prompted further investigation using advanced imaging techniques.
• CTA DICOM images were segmented to create a 3D model for evaluation in a virtual reality (VR) environment.

Findings:

• Virtual reality (VR) visualization of the 3D reconstructed model allowed for a more comprehensive appreciation of the donor's complex renal anatomy.
• The VR assessment revealed that the donor's anatomy was acceptable for living nephrectomy.
• The donor was subsequently approved for donation after the VR-based anatomical evaluation.

Implications:

• Three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction and VR visualization offer a valuable tool for assessing complex anatomy in living donor nephrectomy candidates.
• This technology can potentially increase the pool of eligible living kidney donors by overcoming challenges in interpreting standard CTA scans.
• Enhanced anatomical understanding through VR may lead to improved surgical planning and outcomes in living donor renal transplantation.