A new method for utilizing CT data in stereotactic surgery: measurement and transformation technique

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Medical Imaging
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Accurate localization of intracranial targets is crucial for minimally invasive neurosurgical procedures.
• Existing stereotactic systems face challenges with precision and adaptability to individual patient anatomy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a novel stereotactic coordinate system for precise neurosurgical targeting.
• To integrate computed tomography (CT) and stereoradiography for enhanced localization accuracy.

Main Methods:

• A rigid coordinate system was established using three X-ray opaque points fixed to the skull.
• Target and reference point coordinates were determined using CT imaging.
• Stereoradiographs were used to identify reference points, with calculations accounting for radiological distortion.
• A computer program linked tomographic targets to the reference system for stereotactic coordinate calculation.

Main Results:

• The system successfully defined a skull-connected coordinate system.
• Stereotactic coordinates of targets were calculated by a geometrical approach integrating CT and stereoradiography.
• The method accounts for radiological distortion, improving accuracy.

Conclusions:

• The proposed stereotactic system offers a precise method for neurosurgical targeting.
• Integration of CT and stereoradiography with a geometrical approach enhances localization accuracy.
• This system provides a reliable tool for computer-aided neurosurgery.