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Published on: September 2, 2025
[Augmented reality in surgery for craniosynostosis in children]
L A Satanin1,2, A A Artemyev1, A N Konovalov1
1Burdenko Neurosurgical Center, Moscow, Russia.
Abstract:
Augmented reality (AR) is a new tool in surgical treatment of craniofacial deformities, in particular, craniosynostosis.
Objective:
To clarify the indications for AR navigation system, technical capabilities of system, its advantages and disadvantages in surgery for craniosynostosis in children, as well as to compare these findings with literature data.
Material And Methods:
In 2025, nine consecutive surgical interventions were performed using this method in patients with craniosynostosis at the Burdenko Neurosurgery Center. There were 7 boys (78%) and 2 girls (22%) aged 38.8 ± 54.7 (7-156) months.
Results:
AR navigation allowed us to simulate results of preoperative virtual planning in reconstructive procedures. This ensured accuracy of interventions. AR navigation localized intracranial structures, such as endostoses and venous sinuses, whose visualization made surgery safer. This technique was valuable to mark craniotomy lines, control distraction device position and bone fragments, and assess conformity of final reconstruction with scheduled one. Preoperative modeling took 173.3±61.4 (90-240) min. Overall intraoperative time spent for AR navigation was 33.9±15.6 (15-60) min.
Conclusion:
The augmented reality system appears to be perspective in surgery for craniosynostosis enabling real time intraoperative neuronavigation. Further development of augmented reality techniques in craniosynostosis surgery will improve outcomes and make results more predictable and safe.
