Application of a hospital network compatible 3d-ct image transmission system to intraoperative navigation in laparoscopic sigmoidectomy

Abstract

Recent reports have described the use of 3D-CT images for preoperative simulation or intraoperative navigation in patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery. At our hospital, a completely filmless PACS (picture archiving and communication systems) was introduced in April 2008. At the same time, an Aquarius Net Station was adopted as a 3D-CT image transmission system. This system allowed us real-time access to 3D-CT images of blood vessels (analogous to the visual field yielded by a laparoscope insertion via a port) in the wards (before surgery) and in the operating room (during surgery). We began to utilize this system as a virtual laparoscopy for preoperative simulation and intraoperative navigation in patients undergoing laparoscopic sigmoidectomy. The use of this system has facilitated identifying the location and arrangement of blood vessels and assessing the morphological features of vascular branches. In addition, the safety of preoperative and intraoperative processes and manipulations has been enhanced by the use of this system. The high value of this system is reported herein.