Use of 3D deformable models for intraoperative visualization and quantification of cerebral tissue resection

Abstract

The purpose of the project described in this thesis is to provide intraoperative feedback to the neurosurgeon using the equipment comprising a typical IGNS environment. The project accomplishes this task through the use of physically based, deformable models. The major objectives for this mode of intraoperative feedback are to provide useful visual and quantitative feedback to the neurosurgeon about the progress of tissue resection during a surgical procedure using the equipment available in a typical IGNS environment and to be simultaneously being unobtrusive to the surgeon's work.An overview of the current state of IGNS is presented, followed by a logical association between current work and the significance of the project developed for this thesis. The mathematics of deformable models as a means for providing intraoperative feedback are developed and a thorough description of the work completed for this thesis is presented. A series of increasingly realistic validation studies that were undertaken for the project are described, followed by a discussion of the use of the software in intraoperative applications. Finally, conclusions are made as to the utility of the project as a viable means of providing intraoperative feedback and future work is extrapolated from the project. (Abstract shortened by UMI.