A system to support laparoscopic surgery by augmented reality visualization

Abstract

This paper describes the development of an augmented reality system for intra-operative laparoscopic surgery support. The goal of this system is to reveal structures, otherwise hidden within the laparoscope view. To allow flexible movement of the laparoscope we use optical tracking to track both patient and laparoscope. The necessary calibration and registration procedures were developed and bundled where possible in order to facilitate integration in a current laparoscopic procedure. Care was taken to achieve high accuracy by including radial distortion components without compromising real time speed. Finally a visual error assessment is performed, the usefulness is demonstrated within a test setup and some preliminary quantitative evaluation is done.