New virtual system for planning of neuroendoscopic interventions.

OBJECTIVE

The demands on virtual planning systems are increasing, particularly for technically pretentious surgical interventions such as intracranial endoscopy. In this article, a new virtual system for neuroendoscopy (VIVENDI) is presented. The main purpose of this system is to provide support for planning and training in neuroendoscopic interventions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The software is applied for virtual endoscopic visualization of three-dimensional magnetic resonance datasets, using a clinical magnetic resonance scanner. Rendering is performed on a Hewlett-Packard UNIX workstation.

RESULTS

Virtual endoscopy provides a three-dimensional view of the cerebral ventricles, with good visualization of anatomic details. The rendering system used allows the generation of fly-through sequences for the entire ventricular system in real time. Navigation is controlled by mouse movements, and the visualization of the computer-generated intraventricular spaces is adapted to the characteristics of the optical endoscope.

CONCLUSIONS

The presented virtual neuroendoscopy system is a promising tool for planning and training in neuroendoscopic procedures. It enables these procedures to be simulated prior to surgery based on the patient's individual anatomy.