Article
A novel one-platform image-guided-system with an integrated pre-calibrated ultrasound probe
Der komplett integrierte Ultraschall in der Neuronavigation, eine Plattform-Lösung
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Authors
Published: | April 23, 2004 |
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Outline
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Objective
The integration of ultrasound technology into neuronavigation systems has recently been the subject of reports by a number of groups. This report describes our preliminary findings with regard to the integration of an ultrasound probe that is competely integrated in an existing navigation platform. The aim of the study was to investigate, (1) whether the newly developed system works properly and, (2) whether such a technique might facilitate future neurosurgical interventions.
Methods
The ultrasound system consists of a phased array ultrasound transducer and a small external electronic module with a connection length of 2.8m to the probe. The probe has a frequency range from 5.0 to 7.5MHz, a penetration depth up to 120mm using 128 channels at a footprint of 15mm x 25mm of the scanning area (IGsonic, BrainLAB, Germany). The ultrasound system is integrated into the neuronavigation system (VectorVision2, BrainLAB, Germany) via digital image transmission and electronic parameter control by the navigation software (VV Cranial, BrainLAB, Germany). A precalibrated tracking array is attached to the probe and allows to track the position of the ultrasound image plane.
Results
The system displays a combination of the ultrasound plane functionality with the preoperatively-acquired neuronavigational data. The integrated parameter control allows an automatic setup, depending on the neuronavigation patient data and the intervention planning. Both, the classical navigation and the integrated ultrasound system can be handled by the surgeon via a touch screen technology. Color and Doppler mode of the ultrasound system can also be used in routine.
Conclusions
Image-guided ultrasound in this one-platform system is technically possible. The touch screen technology helps to save additional manpower because the surgeon may use the system, sterile and without assistance. Additionally, it offers the duplex-guided integration of vascular anatomy into the neuronavigational dataset. In an emergency case the entire system might also be used as a simple intraoperative ultrasound platform without the aid of classical neuronavigation.