Mixed Reality Biopsy Navigation System Utilizing Markerless Needle Tracking and Imaging Data Superimposition

Abstract

Exact biopsy planning and careful execution of needle injection is crucial to ensure successful procedure completion as initially intended while minimizing the risk of complications. This study introduces a solution aimed at helping the operator navigate to precisely position the needle in a previously planned trajectory utilizing a mixed reality headset. A markerless needle tracking method was developed by integrating deep learning and deterministic computer vision techniques. The system is based on superimposing imaging data onto the patient’s body in order to directly perceive the anatomy and determine a path from the selected injection site to the target location. Four types of tests were conducted to assess the system’s performance: measuring the accuracy of needle pose estimation, determining the distance between injection sites and designated targets, evaluating the efficiency of material collection, and comparing procedure time and number of punctures required with and without the system. These tests, involving both phantoms and physician participation in the latter two, demonstrated the accuracy and usability of the proposed solution. The results showcased a significant improvement, with a reduction in number of punctures needed to reach the target location. The test was successfully completed on the first attempt in 70% of cases, as opposed to only 20% without the system. Additionally, there was a 53% reduction in procedure time, validating the effectiveness of the system.