Mechatronic system for in-bore MRI-guided insertion of needles to the prostate: An in vivo needle guidance accuracy study.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: To present our experiences in initial clinical evaluation of a novel mechatronic system for in-bore guidance of needles to the prostate for MRI-guided prostate interventions in 10 patients. We report accuracy of this device in the context of focal laser ablation therapy for localized prostate cancer. METHODS: An MRI-compatible needle guidance device was developed for transperineal prostate interventions. Ten patients underwent MRI-guided focal laser ablation therapy with device-mediated laser fiber delivery. We recorded needle guidance error and needle delivery time. RESULTS: A total of 37 needle insertions were evaluated. Median needle guidance error was 3.5 mm (interquartile range, 2.1-5.4 mm), and median needle delivery time was 9 min (interquartile range, 6.5-12 min). CONCLUSION: This system provides a reliable method of accurately aligning needle guides for in-bore transperineal needle delivery to the prostate.