Application of SLAM technology combined with AR in minimally invasive surgery

Abstract

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is revolutionizing the medical field, offering patients faster recovery times and reduced risk of complications. However, MIS demands precise navigation and visualization of the surgical site, which can be challenging due to the limited field of view and constrained working space. In this study, we investigate the integration of simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) technology with augmented reality (AR) to enhance the capabilities of MIS and improve surgical outcomes. SLAM technology enables real-time 3D mapping and tracking of the surgical environment, while AR overlays crucial information, such as anatomical structures and surgical guidance, onto the surgeon's view. The proposed system combines these technologies to create a comprehensive, interactive representation of the patient's anatomy, providing surgeons with a more intuitive and accurate understanding of the surgical site. We assess the performance of the integrated SLAM-AR system based on a review of relevant literature, focusing on its accuracy, usability, and impact on surgical efficiency. The findings suggest that the SLAM-AR system has the potential to significantly improve spatial awareness and navigation during MIS, potentially reducing procedure times and complication rates. Furthermore, the system shows promise for enhancing surgeon training and promoting the adoption of MIS techniques in various surgical fields.