In computer-assisted neurosurgery, surgeons use imaging technologies to create a 3D model of the brain with the developing technology. Neuronavigation, which can be performed before and sometimes during surgery, is reported to provide a great advantage to surgeons. Stating that determining the location of the masses in surgery is critical for the safe and trouble-free removal of brain and spinal cord tumors, Prof. Dr. Mahmut Akyüz from the Department of Brain, Nerve, Spine and Spinal Cord Surgery at Memorial Antalya Hospital stated that neuronavigation enables the neurosurgeon to plan the safest way to treat the condition requiring surgery. Underlining that during the operation, the computer system guides the surgeon precisely to the treated brain area thanks to neuronavigation, and that it is completely removed with minimal risk without damaging other tissues, Prof. Dr. Mahmut Akyüz talked about the advantages of neuronavigation technology in brain surgeries.
It functions like a GPS system
Stating that the neuronavigation system is a technology primarily used in brain and spine surgeries and provides surgeons with precise guidance around complex anatomical structures by functioning like a GPS system, Akyüz said, “The system facilitates surgeons to navigate with high accuracy during surgery by functioning like GPS. This system helps surgeons reach their target areas with minimal damage and provides millimeter-level precision around sensitive tissues such as the brain, spinal cord and nerve structures. Neuronavigation systems were developed for image-guided neurosurgery to aid in the accurate removal of brain tumors. The basic principles of navigated surgery are to see the tip of a pointer in an image field. A relationship must be established between the device area and the image area.”
Helps identify and target problem areas
Basically, a transformation matrix must be calculated to map the coordinates of any point between the image and the device fields, Akyüz said, “The purpose of the transformation matrix is to create a link between the digital image data and the anatomical structure and therefore provide increased 3D orientation. The neuronavigation system helps to precisely locate and remove tumors while avoiding critical brain structures, as well as identify and target brain regions responsible for Epileptic seizures. It also provides accurate guidance for procedures in the spine, ensuring the correct placement of screws, implants and other instruments.”
Shows surgeons every detail of the brain
Prof. Dr. Mahmut Akyüz stated that the images are updated in real time during surgery and said, “Combining functional data provided by computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging or ultrasound with neuronavigation allows neurosurgeons to avoid important areas of the brain during surgery. Before surgery, MRI and CT scans are used to create a three-dimensional map of the patient's anatomy. This map is integrated with other surgical systems and tools used during the procedure. It is continuously updated in real time to reflect the current position and condition. During surgery, the system provides real-time feedback, allowing the surgeon to observe and navigate every detail and effect in the targeted area, giving high accuracy and minimizing risk.”
