The Role of Augmented Reality Neuronavigation in Transsphenoidal Surgery: A Systematic Review

Abstract

In the field of minimally invasive neurosurgery, microscopic transsphenoidal surgery (MTS) and endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery (ETS) have been widely accepted as a safe approach for pituitary lesions and, more recently, their indications have been extended to lesions at various skull base regions. It is mandatory during transsphenoidal surgery (TS) to identify key anatomical landmarks in the sphenoid sinus and distinguish them from the lesion. Over the years, many intraoperative tools have been introduced to improve the neuronavigation systems aiming to achieve safer and more accurate neurosurgical interventions. However, traditional neuronavigation systems may lose the accuracy of real-time location due to the discrepancy between the actual surgical field and the preoperative 2D images. To deal with this, augmented reality (AR)—a new sophisticated 3D technology that superimposes computer-generated virtual objects onto the user’s view of the real world—has been considered a promising tool. Particularly, in the field of TS, AR can minimize the anatomic challenges of traditional endoscopic or microscopic surgery, aiding in surgical training, preoperative planning and intra-operative orientation. The aim of this systematic review is to analyze the potential future role of augmented reality, both in endoscopic and microscopic transsphenoidal surgeries.