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Computer‐assisted needle positioning for liver tumour radiofrequency ablation (RFA)
Author(s) -
Mundeleer Laurent,
Wikler David,
Leloup Thierry,
Lucidi Valério,
Donckier Vincent,
Warzée Nadine
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
the international journal of medical robotics and computer assisted surgery
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.556
H-Index - 53
eISSN - 1478-596X
pISSN - 1478-5951
DOI - 10.1002/rcs.278
Subject(s) - radiofrequency ablation , context (archaeology) , computer science , ablation , medicine , position (finance) , paleontology , finance , economics , biology
Background The RFA procedures rely on a precise positioning of the radiofrequency electrode and the complete destruction of the tumour. This article presents new optimization techniques to improve such surgical procedures. Methods A method to optimize the coverage of the tumour by successive RFA destructions and an in vitro procedure with simulated tumours have been developed. Results The guidance system and optimization coverage have been tested on 3D simulation and by the surgeon in vitro on a heifer liver. In this context, the RFA electrode is optically tracked and guided. Conclusions The optimization method provides needle placements that ensure a complete theoretical ablation of the tumour, and the guidance system helps the surgeon to reach each position of destruction. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.