Endoscopic sinus surgery using intraoperative computed tomography imaging for updating a three-dimensional navigation system

Abstract

Objectives: The use of three-dimensional navigation systems provides information on the structures surrounding the field of operation and thereby reduces the risk of iatrogenic damage. The computed tomography (CT) data conventionally used are provided by preoperative scanning procedures, which means that tissue changes coming about during surgery are not seen on the screen. An intraoperative CT scanning procedure being able to update the CT data could provide a solution.

Study design: Endoscopic sinus operations using an intraoperative CT updating the three-dimensional navigation system were performed on six persons to find out, whether the above is true.

Methods: Different parameters, advantages, and disadvantages in the cases of these six patients were compared with a group of 22 patients who underwent conventional endoscopic sinus surgery with different three-dimensional navigation systems without updating the CT data set.

Results: The intraoperative CT for updating the three-dimensional navigation system provides useful information for the surgeon.

Conclusion: Balancing its advantages against its disadvantages, the updating of the CT data set with intraoperative CT cannot be recommended for conventional standard endoscopic sinus surgery.