A fluoroscopic X-Ray registration process for three-dimensional surgical navigation

Abstract

We describe a system involving a computer-instrumented fluoroscope for the purpose of 3D navigation and guidance using pre-operative diagnostic scans as a reference. The goal of the project is to devise a computer- assisted tool that will improve the accuracy, reduce risk, minimize the invasiveness, and shorten the time it takes to perform a variety of neurosurgical and orthopedic procedures of the spine. For this purpose we propose an apparatus that will track surgical tools and localize them with respect to the patient’s anatomy and pre-operative 3D diagnostic scans using intraoperative fluoroscopy for in situ registration. The resulting system leverages equipment already commonly available in the Operating Room (OR), allowing us to provide important new functionality that is free of many current limitations, while keeping costs contained.