Our Summary
This research paper describes a new type of surgical simulator that combines virtual reality (VR) and 3D-printing technology. This simulator is designed to help surgeons, both trainees and experienced ones, better understand patients’ individual anatomy, particularly in skull base surgery.
The simulator uses 3D models of key anatomical structures, and a special navigation tracking system that uses a 3D-printed endoscope as a VR controller. The accuracy of this system was tested on VR and 3D-printed skull models and found to be within 1 cm.
By combining VR and augmented reality visual cues with a 3D physical model, the simulator can mimic sinus endoscopy and highlight specific anatomical structures in real time.
The researchers suggest that this mixed-reality simulator could be a cost-effective and customizable teaching tool. It can potentially make surgical simulation more accessible and practical.
FAQs
- What is the purpose of the surgical simulator combining VR and 3D-printing technology in this research?
- How does the simulator use a 3D-printed endoscope in its tracking system?
- Can this mixed-reality simulator potentially make surgical simulation more accessible and practical?
Doctor’s Tip
A helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about sinus surgery is to follow all pre-operative instructions provided by the surgical team, such as fasting before the procedure and avoiding certain medications. It is also important to discuss any concerns or questions with the surgeon before the surgery to ensure a smooth and successful outcome. Additionally, following post-operative care instructions, such as taking prescribed medications and attending follow-up appointments, is crucial for a speedy recovery.
Suitable For
Patients who are typically recommended for sinus surgery include those with chronic sinusitis that does not respond to medication, sinus polyps, deviated septum, sinus tumors, and sinus infections that keep coming back. Surgery may also be recommended for patients with severe sinus headaches, facial pain, and nasal congestion that affects their quality of life. In some cases, sinus surgery may be recommended to improve the drainage of the sinuses and to prevent recurrent sinus infections.
Timeline
Before sinus surgery, a patient may experience symptoms such as chronic sinusitis, nasal congestion, facial pain, and headaches. They may undergo diagnostic tests such as imaging scans and nasal endoscopy to determine the extent of the sinus disease.
After sinus surgery, the patient may experience some discomfort, swelling, and congestion in the nasal passages. They will be prescribed pain medication and nasal sprays to help with recovery. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon will be scheduled to monitor healing and address any complications. Over time, the patient should experience improved breathing, reduced sinus infections, and overall better quality of life.
What to Ask Your Doctor
Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about sinus surgery include:
- What specific type of sinus surgery do I need and why?
- What are the potential risks and complications associated with the surgery?
- What is the expected recovery time and what post-operative care will be required?
- Will I need any additional procedures or treatments before or after the surgery?
- How experienced are you in performing this type of surgery?
- Are there any alternative treatments or medications that I could consider instead of surgery?
- Can you explain the benefits of using a mixed-reality simulator for surgical planning in my case?
- How will the use of the mixed-reality simulator impact the overall success of my surgery?
- Will the simulator help you better understand my individual anatomy and improve the precision of the surgery?
- How will the use of this technology affect the overall cost of the surgery and my insurance coverage?
Reference
Authors: Barber SR, Jain S, Son YJ, Chang EH. Journal: Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2018 Nov;159(5):933-937. doi: 10.1177/0194599818797586. Epub 2018 Sep 11. PMID: 30200812