Surgical Simulation Using VR
Our department has adopted the VOXEL-MAN, a virtual reality (VR) simulator for ear surgery, to conduct preoperative VR simulations. This simulator reconstructs 3D images from patients’ temporal bone CT data, allowing the surgeon to perform the surgery on a 3D model of the patient’s temporal bone while wearing specialized goggles. By repeatedly practicing with this VR simulation before the actual surgery, surgeons can confirm the surgical approach and identify high-risk areas (photo).
The VOXEL-MAN features force feedback in the handpiece, enabling the surgeon to feel the vibrations and resistance of the drill as it cuts through the temporal bone model. Additionally, the speed of bone cutting varies with the pressure applied to the handpiece, and bleeding is simulated. This allows us to perform simulations that closely mimic the sensations of actual ear surgery.
Because VR simulations can be repeated multiple times before the surgery, surgeons are able to thoroughly prepare by practicing the procedure and ensuring safety.
Minimally Invasive Surgery with AR
Ear surgery requires a three-dimensional understanding of the complex structures within the temporal bone and the precise removal of bone to avoid vital organs like the facial nerve, semicircular canals, and brain, making it a highly delicate and difficult procedure.
Our hospital has adopted AR (augmented reality) that links CT and other imaging data to the surgical microscope. Using AR, surgeons can view the location and depth of critical organs within the temporal bone in real-time on the microscope screen before cutting the bone (Fig. 1, Fig. 2). The use of AR in ear surgery has enabled surgeons to perform safer, more precise, and minimally invasive procedures.
