Contribution of Augmented Reality to Minimally Invasive Computer-Assisted Cranial Base Surgery

Cranial base procedures involve manipulation of small, delicate and complex structures in the fields of otology, rhinology, neurosurgery and maxillofacial surgery. Critical nerves and blood vessels are in close proximity of these structures. Augmented reality is an emerging technology that can revolutionize the cranial base procedures by providing supplementary anatomical and navigational information unified on a single display. However, the awareness and acceptance of possibilities of augmented reality systems in cranial base domain is fairly low. This article aims at evaluating the usefulness of augmented reality systems in cranial base surgeries and highlights the challenges that current technology faces and their potential solutions. A technical perspective about different strategies employed in development of an augmented realty system is also presented. The current trend suggests an increase in interest towards augmented reality systems that may lead to safer and cost-effective procedures. However, several issues need to be addressed before it can be widely integrated into routine practice.