PreVISE: an efficient virtual reality system for SEEG surgical planning.

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Medical Imaging
• Virtual Reality

Background:

• Epilepsy is a neurological disorder requiring precise surgical intervention.
• Stereo-electroencephalography (SEEG) identifies seizure onset zones but involves complex 3D anatomical challenges and risks to critical structures.
• Current 2D planning methods demand high cognitive load and extensive time.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a virtual reality (VR) system for SEEG surgical planning.
• To improve visualization, efficiency, and safety in SEEG electrode placement.
• To provide real-time feedback during the planning process.

Main Methods:

• Development of an integrated VR system for SEEG planning.
• Incorporation of user-friendly visualization and interaction strategies.
• Real-time feedback metrics including distances to blood vessels and insertion angles were implemented.

Main Results:

• The VR system offers intuitive 3D visualization of brain anatomy.
• Real-time feedback metrics enhance surgical safety and planning quality.
• Surgical planning time was reduced by 91% compared to traditional methods.

Conclusions:

• The novel VR system significantly enhances SEEG surgical planning efficiency and safety.
• VR technology offers a promising alternative to traditional 2D planning for complex neurosurgical procedures.
• This system represents a significant advancement in planning for focal epilepsy treatment.