Virtual Reality as an Operative Tool During Scoliosis Surgery

Abstract

As a three-dimensional deformity, scoliosis receive a three-dimensional correction as well. Several limitations with the current techniques do not allow for this goal to be accomplished. Evaluation of vertebral displacements while corrective forces are taking place is the first step to know precisely what the surgery accomplishes. We have already reported on a method based on video tracking of vertebral displacements using high precision algorithm.

Such a method allowed the surgeon to watch vertebral displacements occuring through the 3D positioning of vertebral model on a monitor by the side of the surgeon. The main drawback is the need for the surgeon to distract his attention from the operative field to get a plane view of a screen.

We propose to use a new approach of virtual reality to superpose a 3D “transparent” vision of the vertebra directly on the surgeon operative view. This method uses a dedicated apparatus to produce an augmented reality 3D view projected directly in the operative field improving reality perception of the operative field.