Intraoperative device targeting using real-time MRI

Real-time MRI has the potential to significantly improve intraoperative surgical processes. However, development of these technologies is complicated by the need for software tools that support task-oriented visualization of 2D and 3D datasets, enable flexible real-time image processing pathways, and interface with proprietary scanner hardware. Developing such tools requires substantial software engineering effort for these low-level tasks that distracts from a focus on developing and implementing algorithms that relate to the surgical technique in question. RTHawk and Vurtigo are extensible software platforms that simplify the development of tools for performing real-time MRI-guided procedures. We present here initial work on a system for performing intracerebral drug infusion under real-time MRI guidance using the Navigus pivot point-based MRI-compatible external trajectory guide. Initial testing performed using a GE scanner targeting a rigid object in a water-filled phantom allowed realtime aiming and infusion monitoring with 1 mm targeting accuracy. In vivo testing is forthcoming.