Virtual Cranio-Maxillofacial Surgery Planning with Stereo Graphics and Haptics

Abstract

Cranio-maxillofacial surgery to restore normal skeletal anatomy in patients with serious facial conditions is both complex and time consuming. There is, however, ample evidence that careful pre-operative planning leads to a better outcome with a higher degree of function and reduced morbidity and at the same time reduced time in the operating room. We are building a cranio-maxillofacial surgery planning system that, based on patient specific three-dimensional CT data, allows the surgeon to plan the surgical procedure without the help of a technician. Using a combination of stereo visualization with six degrees-of-freedom, high-fidelity haptic feedback, the system allows the surgeon to test alternative surgical solutions, move bone fragments, and design patient-specific implants and plates. Our goal is a system where the surgeon, after minimal training, can plan a complex procedure in less than an hour. Preliminary tests indicate that this goal is achievable.