Precision Needle Localization Using Electromagnetic Tracking and AR Visualization in Ventricular Interventions

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Medical Imaging
• Augmented Reality

Background:

• External ventricular drainage (EVD) is a critical neurosurgical procedure.
• Enhancing surgical precision and patient safety in EVD is paramount.
• Current navigation techniques can be improved with advanced visualization tools.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate an augmented reality (AR) system for real-time navigation during EVD catheter insertion.
• To improve surgical precision and patient safety using electromagnetic (EM) stylet tracking.
• To assess the accuracy and feasibility of the AR navigation system in a phantom model.

Main Methods:

• An AR system was developed integrating a tablet PC, 3D camera, and EM tracking.
• Deep learning facial landmark detection and coordinate registration were used for system alignment.
• A phantom model experiment with 20 trials was conducted for drainage procedures and accuracy measurements.

Main Results:

• All 20 simulated EVD drainage procedures were successfully completed.
• The system demonstrated a mean Euclidean distance error of 1.68 ± 0.66 mm.
• The AR system provided real-time navigation for catheter insertion with high accuracy.

Conclusions:

• The developed AR system shows significant potential for enhancing neurosurgical interventions like EVD.
• Real-time navigation using EM tracking and AR can improve surgical precision and patient safety.
• Continuous technological innovation is crucial for advancing precision in medical procedures.