Digital design of a surgical simulator for interventional MR imaging

We present the design of a simulator for a prototype interventional magnetic resonance imaging scanner. This MRI scanner is integrated with an operating theater, enabling new techniques in minimally invasive surgery. The simulator is designed with a threefold purpose: to provide a rehearsal apparatus for practicing and modifying conventional procedures for use in the magnetic environment; to serve as a visualization workstation for procedure planning and previewing as well as a post-operative review; and to form the foundation of a laboratory workbench for the development of new surgical tools and procedures for minimally invasive surgery. The simulator incorporates pre-operative data, either MRI or CT exams, as well as data from commercial surgical planning systems. Dynamic control of the simulation and interactive display of pre-operative data in lieu of intra-operative data is handled via an opto-electronic tracking system. The resulting system is contributing insights into how best to perform visualization for this new surgical environment.