Mixed reality models based on low-dose computed tomography technology in nephron-sparing surgery are better than models based on normal-dose computed tomography.

Abstract

Nephron-sparing surgery has been widely applied in the treatment of renal tumors. Previous studies have confirmed the advantages of mixed reality technology in surgery. The study aimed to explore the optimization of mixed reality technology and its application value in nephron-sparing surgery. In this prospective study of 150 patients with complex renal tumors (RENAL nephrometry score ≥7) who underwent nephron-sparing surgery, patients were randomly divided into Group A (the normal-dose mixed reality group, n=50), Group B (the low-dose mixed reality group, n=50), and Group C (the traditional computed tomography image group, n=50). Group A and Group C received the normal-dose computed tomography scan protocol: 120 kVp, 400 mA, and 350 mgI/mL, while Group B received the low-dose computed tomography scan protocol: 80 kVp, automatic tube current modulation, and 320 mgI/mL. All computed tomography data were transmitted to a three-dimensional visualization workstation and underwent modeling and mixed reality imaging. Two senior surgeons evaluated mixed reality quality. Objective indexes and perioperative indexes were calculated and compared. Compared with Group A, the radiation effective dose in Group B was decreased by 39.6%. The subjective scores of mixed reality quality in Group B were significantly higher than those of Group A (Z=-4.186, P<0.001). The inter-observer agreement between the two senior surgeons in mixed reality quality was excellent (K=0.840, P<0.001). The perioperative indexes showed that the mixed reality groups were significantly different from the computed tomography image group (all P<0.017). More cases underwent nephron-sparing surgery in the mixed reality groups than in the computed tomography image group (P<0.0017). Low-dose computed tomography technology can be effectively applied to mixed reality optimization, reducing the effective dose and improving mixed reality quality. Optimized mixed reality can significantly increase the cases of successful nephron-sparing surgery and improve perioperative indexes.