Dynamic MRI scan plane control for passive tracking of instruments and devices.

This paper describes a novel image-based method for tracking robotic mechanisms and interventional devices during Magnetic Resonance Image (MRI)-guided procedures. It takes advantage of the multi-planar imaging capabilities of MRI to optimally image a set of localizing fiducials for passive motion tracking in the image coordinate frame. The imaging system is servoed to adaptively position the scan plane based on automatic detection and localization of fiducial artifacts directly from the acquired image stream. This closed-loop control system has been implemented using an open-source software framework and currently operates with GE MRI scanners. Accuracy and performance were evaluated in experiments, the results of which are presented here.

Robot-assisted needle placement in open MRI: system architecture, integration and validation.

In prostate cancer treatment, there is a move toward targeted interventions for biopsy and therapy, which has precipitated the need for precise image-guided methods for needle placement. This paper describes an integrated system for planning and performing percutaneous procedures with robotic assistance under MRI guidance. A graphical planning interface allows the physician to specify the set of desired needle trajectories, based on anatomical structures and lesions observed in the patient's registered pre-operative and pre-procedural MR images, immediately prior to the intervention in an open-bore MRI scanner. All image-space coordinates are automatically computed, and are used to position a needle guide by means of an MRI-compatible robotic manipulator, thus avoiding the limitations of the traditional fixed needle template. Automatic alignment of real-time intra-operative images aids visualization of the needle as it is manually inserted through the guide. Results from in-scanner phantom experiments are provided.

Patient specific simulation and navigation of ventriculoscopic interventions.

In this paper a comprehensive framework for pre-operative planning, procedural skill training, and intraoperative navigation is presented. The goal of this system is to integrate surgical simulation with surgical planning in order to improve the individual treatment of patients. Various surgical approaches and new, more complex procedures can be assessed using a safe and objective platform that will allow the physicians to explore and discuss possible risks and benefits prior to the intervention. A simulation environment extends the pre-operative planning in a natural way, as it allows for direct evaluation of the surgical approach envisioned for each case. In addition, by providing intraoperative navigation based on this simulation, surgeons can carry out the previously optimized plan with higher precision and greater confidence.

Needle artifact localization in 3T MR images.

This work explores an image-based approach for localizing needles during MRI-guided interventions, for the purpose of tracking and navigation. Susceptibility artifacts for several needles of varying thickness were imaged, in phantoms, using a 3 tesla MRI system, under a variety of conditions. The relationship between the true needle positions and the locations of artifacts within the images, determined both by manual and automatic segmentation methods, have been quantified and are presented here.

Robot-assisted needle placement in open-MRI: system architecture, integration and validation.

This work describes an integrated system for planning and performing percutaneous procedures-such as prostate biopsy-with robotic assistance under MRI-guidance. The physician interacts with a planning interface in order to specify the set of desired needle trajectories, based on anatomical structures and lesions observed in the patient's MR images. All image-space coordinates are automatically computed, and used to position a needle guide by means of an MRI-compatible robotic manipulator, thus avoiding the limitations of the traditional fixed needle template. Direct control of real-time imaging aids visualization of the needle as it is manually inserted through the guide. Results from in-scanner phantom experiments are provided.