Augmented Reality Surgical Navigation in Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery: A Preclinical Study

Abstract Background : Augmented reality (AR) is a technology that combines virtual information with the real-world environment. In the medical field, AR technology can be used to show information inside the body. Methods : We combined augmented reality, artificial intelligence and optical tracking to enhance the augmented reality minimally invasive spine surgery (AR-MISS) system. The system has three functions: augmented reality radiograph superimposition, AR real-time puncture needle tracking and AR intraoperative navigation. The three functions of the system were preliminarily evaluated through beagle animal experiments. Results: The AR radiographs were successfully superimposed on the real intraoperative videos. The anteroposterior and lateral errors of superimposed AR radiographs were 0.74 ± 0.21 mm and 1.13 ± 0.40 mm, respectively. The puncture needles could be tracked by the AR-MISS system in real time. The anteroposterior and lateral errors of the real-time AR needle tracking were 1.26 ±0.20 mm and 1.22 ± 0.25 mm, respectively. With the help of AR radiographsand AR puncture needles, the puncture procedure could be guided visually by the system in real time. The anteroposterior and lateral errors of AR-guided puncture were 2.47 ±0.86 mm and 2.85± 1.17 mm, respectively. Conclusion : Theresults indicate that the AR-MISS system is accurate and feasible in a beagle model. Additional clinical assessment is needed.