Preoperative Simulation and Intraoperative Navigation with Three-Dimensional Computer Graphics

Abstract

We present a preoperative simulation and intraoperative navigation system (AdVANS) with three-dimensional computer graphics (3D-CG). The system consists of a graphics workstation and a three-dimensional digitizer for neuronavigation. At the workstation, the data were subjected to image-processing and volume-rendering manipulations to produce 3D-CG. The 3D-CG created by this system enabled surgeons to visualize lesions via the semitransparent scalp surface and the brain. Because the 3D-CG could be explored from any angle of view, the surgeons could accurately assess optimal head position, craniotomy placement, and trajectory to the target lesion on the computer display preoperatively. The three-dimensional digitizer, composed of a mechanical arm and a laser pointer, could monitor the intraoperative location illuminated by the laser pointer in real time on 3D-CG. Thus, this system is helpful in localizing the lesions and determining the extent of resection by preoperative simulation and intraoperative navigation with 3D-CG.