Design and Simulate Intracranial Support to Guide Maxillo Surgery: A Study Based on Bioengineering

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Maxillofacial Surgery
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Intraoperative navigation links planned anatomy to surgical sites using anatomical markers and a point locator.
• The Dynamic Reference Frame (DRF) sensor is calibrated in the workspace.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the localization accuracy of an electromagnetic locator in neuro-maxillofacial surgery.
• To evaluate a modified sensor position using a novel bite support device.

Main Methods:

• A 3D-printed bite support device was designed for sensor placement on the upper dental arch.
• Localization accuracy was tested on a skull phantom using 10 anatomical landmarks.
• Comparisons were made between sensor placement on the forehead versus the bite support device.

Main Results:

• The bite support device reduced localization error, particularly for the temporal bone and midface structures.
• The new device demonstrated reliability and reproducibility, comparable to traditional methods.
• Improved accuracy was noted in the middle third of the face and jaw areas.

Conclusions:

• The bite support device enables sensor repositioning, improving access to difficult-to-reach areas like the frontal site.
• This novel calibration reduces localization error and enhances midface structure navigation.
• The device offers a foundation for a new maxillofacial surgery navigation approach with improved accuracy and no surgical impediment.