Photogrammetry Applied to Neurosurgery: A Literature Review

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Neurosurgery
• Computational Geometry

Background:

• Photogrammetry enables 3D model creation and measurements using photographs.
• Its applications in neurosurgery include 3D anatomical modeling and deformity assessment.
• Accurate 3D models are crucial for surgical planning and medical education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the applications of photogrammetry in neurosurgical practice.
• To identify and summarize the systems and software utilized for photogrammetry.
• To highlight the potential of photogrammetry in neurosurgical education and diagnosis.

Main Methods:

• A literature review was conducted using PubMed.
• Keywords included "photogrammetry", "neurosurgery", "neuroanatomy", "craniosynostosis", and "scoliosis".
• 86 articles were included after screening 315 identified papers.

Main Results:

• Photogrammetry is primarily used for creating 3D models of neuroanatomical structures and surgical approaches.
• It aids in diagnosing and evaluating head and trunk deformities like craniosynostosis and scoliosis.
• Specific applications were found in cervical spine, skull-base surgery, and radiosurgery.

Conclusions:

• Photogrammetry facilitates the creation of accurate 3D anatomical and surgical models.
• The technique supports the diagnosis of pathologies and evaluation of deformities.
• Photogrammetry holds significant potential for enhancing resident and medical student education.