Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 22, 2025
08:06
Mixed Reality Assisted Radical Endoscopic Thyroidectomy
Published on: January 31, 2025
193
Enhancing recurrent laryngeal nerve localization during transoral endoscopic thyroid surgery using augmented reality:
Moon Young Oh1, Yeonjin Choi2,3, Taesoo Jang2
1Department of Surgery, Seoul Metropolitan Government Seoul National University Boramae Medical Center, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
Annals of Surgical Treatment and Research
|March 14, 2025
Summary
Augmented reality (AR) systems show promise for improving recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) identification during transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy. This technology aids surgeons in visualizing the RLN, potentially reducing complications in this challenging procedure.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Innovation
- Medical Imaging
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Preserving the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) is critical during transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy.
- Obstructed visualization of the RLN increases complication risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the feasibility of an augmented reality (AR) system for enhanced RLN identification.
- To assess the accuracy of AR-guided RLN localization during transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy.
Main Methods:
- Developed AR models from preoperative CT scans, integrating anatomical structures including the RLN.
- Overlaid AR models onto real-time endoscopic video during surgery.
- Utilized manual registration and the Dice Similarity Coefficient (DSC) to evaluate alignment accuracy.
Main Results:
- Three patients underwent AR-assisted transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy.
- Mean Dice Similarity Coefficient (DSC) for RLN registration was 0.6 ± 0.1.
- The system demonstrated feasibility in identifying anatomical structures.
Conclusions:
- Augmented reality (AR) systems are feasible for transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy.
- AR shows potential for improving recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) localization.
- Moderate accuracy suggests further refinement for clinical application.
