title: Virtual reality imaging with real-time ultrasound guidance for facet joint injection: a proof of concept.
abstract: Facet interventions continue to be used in pain management. Computed tomographic (CT) images can be registered into a virtual world that includes images generated by an ultrasound (US) probe tracked in real time, permitting guidance of tracked needles. We acquired CT-generated 3-dimensional (3D) images of 2 models and a cadaver. Three-dimensional representations of a US probe and needle were generated. A magnetic system tracked the needle and US probe. Using the US, 3D CT images were registered to the model/cadaver. Images were fused on a single interface. Facet injections were performed in the models and cadaver with radio-opaque markers. A postprocedure CT image determined appropriate placement. The virtual reality system described demonstrates technical innovations that may lead to future advancements in the area of percutaneous interventions in the management of pain.
authors.affiliation: Department of Anesthesia, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada. cclarke@uwo.ca
authors.forename: Collin
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Clarke
authors.forename: John
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Moore
authors.forename: Christopher
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Wedlake
authors.forename: Donald
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Lee
authors.forename: Su
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Ganapathy
authors.forename: Maher
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Salbalbal
authors.forename: Timothy
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Wilson
authors.forename: Terry
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Peters
authors.forename: Daniel
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Bainbridge
mesh_terms: D002102:Cadaver; D003196:Computer Graphics; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D008297:Male; D009339:Needles; D019047:Phantoms, Imaging; D013131:Spine / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed; D014463:Ultrasonography; D021801:Zygapophyseal Joint / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*