A virtual environment for surgical image guidance in intraoperative MRI

Abstract

Intraoperative MRI has recently entered the operating room as a new imaging modality. Customized visualization systems might further facilitate the use of this imaging technology. A visualization system for use in the interventional MRI has been developed, providing a virtual environment for surgical navigation using real-time images and for controlling the scanner. The visualization system has customized features for certain clinical applications. A training and testing facility has also been established. The introduction of the visualization system in the interventional MRI overcame several ambiguities and inconsistencies that were previously present, and resulted in a more transparent man-machine interface approach. A pilot study using the software to place cryoprobes in an animal liver showed promising results. Augmentation of real-time MR images with 3D rendering and customized navigation features opens new possibilities in intraoperative MRI. The described system can also be extended to other intraoperative imaging modalities.

Tumor ablation therapy of liver cancers with an open magnetic resonance imaging-based navigation system

“…MRI is increasingly used for guiding, monitoring, and controlling percutaneous procedures and surgery. The rapid development of interventional techniques has led to integration of imaging with computers, new therapy devices, and operating-room-like conditions [18][19][20]. For the treatment of liver cancers, several reports have described MRI-guided systems for RFA, microwave coagulation therapy, and cryotherapy [14][15][16][17].…”

“…MRI provides many advantages for navigation, including good soft-tissue image contrast, absence of ionizing radiation, and applicability to bone or air space. Therefore, MR image-guided minimally invasive interventional procedures have been developed in response to the increased use of open-configuration MR systems [14][15][16][17][18][19][20]. In Kyushu University Hospital, an open MRI therapeutic room was established in March 2005 (Fig.…”