Image-guided surgery

Image-guided surgery (IGS) is a surgical procedure that is guided by images produced by scans such as CT scans, MRI scans, or ultrasounds. The images are used to guide the surgeon in real-time during the operation. This technique is often used in neurosurgery, orthopedic surgery, ENT surgery, and other complex surgeries.

Overview

Image-guided surgery uses a combination of computer systems and imaging techniques to create a 3D model of the patient's anatomy. This model is then used to guide the surgeon during the operation. The goal of IGS is to improve the surgeon's ability to visualize the surgical site and to increase the precision and accuracy of the surgery.

Procedure

Before the surgery, the patient undergoes a scan such as a CT scan or an MRI scan. The images from the scan are then used to create a 3D model of the patient's anatomy. During the surgery, the surgeon uses the 3D model as a guide. The surgeon can see the exact location of their surgical instruments in relation to the patient's anatomy on a computer screen.

Benefits

Image-guided surgery has several benefits. It can increase the precision and accuracy of the surgery, which can lead to better outcomes for the patient. It can also reduce the risk of damage to healthy tissues and organs. In addition, IGS can make complex surgeries safer and easier to perform.

Risks

Like all surgical procedures, image-guided surgery has some risks. These can include infection, bleeding, and reactions to anesthesia. There is also a small risk that the images used to guide the surgery may not be accurate, which could lead to complications during the surgery.

See Also

• Computed Tomography
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging
• Ultrasound
• Neurosurgery
• Orthopedic Surgery
• Ear, Nose, and Throat Surgery

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