Augmented Reality Based Navigation System for Endoscopic Transnasal Optic Canal Decompression

Endoscopic transnasal optic nerve decompression surgery plays a crucial role in minimal invasive treatment of complex traumatic optic neuropathy. However, a major challenge faced during the procedure is the inability to visualize the optic nerve intraoperatively. To address this issue, an endoscopic image-based augmented reality surgical navigation system is developed in this study. The system aims to virtually fuse the optic nerve onto the endoscopic images, assisting surgeons in determining the optic nerve’s position and reducing surgical risks. First, a calibration algorithm based on a checkerboard grid of immobile points is proposed, building upon existing calibration methods. Additionally, to tackle accuracy issues associated with augmented reality technology, an optical navigation and visual fusion compensation algorithm is proposed to improve the intraoperative tracking accuracy. To evaluate the system’s performance, model experiments were meticulously designed and conducted. The results confirm the accuracy and stability of the proposed system, with an average tracking error of (0.99 ± 0.46) mm. This outcome demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm in improving the augmented reality surgical navigation system’s accuracy. Furthermore, the system successfully displays hidden optic nerves and other deep tissues, thus showcasing the promising potential for future applications in orbital and maxillofacial surgery.