Development of a New Korean Neuronavigation System

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: Image-guided surgical system has been widely used in neurosurgical field for minimally invasive surgery. We evaluate the efficacy of a new neuronavigation system developed by ourselves to neurosurgical procedures. METHODS: Application accuracy was estimated for evaluation of interactive localization of intracranial lesions. A phantom was mounted with ten frameless markers which were randomly distributed on its surface. Target points were digitized and the coordinates were recorded and compared with reference points. Root mean square (RMS) errors of the coordinates were calculated. The system was used in six cases with MR imaging. We evaluated for its utility, ease of integration, reliability, and intraoperative accuracy. RESULTS: Application accuracy is a crucial factor for stereotactic surgical localization system. The estimated RMS error was 1.2+/-0.5mm. This degree of accuracy was comparable to that of other reports. Clincally, it was helpful in preoperative planning, deciding the site and location of craniotomy and judging the anatomical position of intracerebral lesion. CONCLUSION: This system provides an accurate and reliable means for localizing lesions within the brain and identifying underlying anatomical structure. We could minimize surgical morbitidy and operation time.