Accuracy assessment and implementation of an electromagnetically tracked endoscopic orbital navigation system

Abstract

Optic neuropathies are historically difficult to treat due to difficulty in reaching the optic nerve in the tight neurovascular environment of the orbit. An orbital endoscopic system is currently under development that may be able to administer treatment to the optic nerve in a significantly less invasive manner than that of previous surgical procedures. However, due the tight confines of the orbital environment, this endoscopic system has proven to be time consuming and tedious. By combining an orbital endoscope with a flexible electromagnetic tracking system, it may be possible to develop a quick and accurate method of locating the optic nerve. Much of the guesswork involved in orbital endoscopy could be relieved by live tracking in preoperative CT scans. This project focuses on the accuracy assessment of such a tracked endoscopic system as well as its implementation in phantom and animal models. With the combined benefits of orbital endoscopy and electromagnetic tracking, this is the route to providing the best support possible for safe and efficient orbital surgery.