A prototype ultrasound-guided laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation system.
BACKGROUND
Advanced laparoscopic procedures, particularly laparoscopic liver resection and ablation, may benefit from image-guided surgery techniques that involve interactive three-dimensional imaging and instrument tracking.


METHODS
A prototype system for laparoscopic ultrasound-guided radiofrequency ablation was designed and implemented. This system uses an infrared camera to track instruments and runs on a personal computer. Features of the system include spatially registered ultrasound visualization, volume reconstruction, and interactive targeting. Targeting of accuracy studies was performed by directing a tracked needle to a phantom target.


RESULTS
Ultrasound data collection and volume reconstruction can be achieved within minutes and interactively reviewed by the surgeon. Early results with phantom experiments demonstrate a targeting accuracy of 5 to 10 mm.


CONCLUSIONS
These results support the further development of this and similar image-guided surgery systems for specific laparoscopic procedures. Eventually, rigorous clinical evaluation will be necessary to prove their value.
Bao
P
P
Vanderbilt University Medical Center, D-5220 Medical Center North, Nashville, TN 37232, USA.
Sinha
T K
TK
Chen
C-C R
CC
Warmath
J R
JR
Galloway
R L
RL
Herline
A J
AJ
D000465:Algorithms; D017115:Catheter Ablation / Q000295:instrumentation; D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D010535:Laparoscopy; D008099:Liver / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000601:surgery*; D008113:Liver Neoplasms / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000601:surgery*; D019047:Phantoms, Imaging; D025321:Surgery, Computer-Assisted / Q000295:instrumentation; D014463:Ultrasonography