Application of virtual reality system for individualized preoperative planning of sphenoidal ridge meningioma

Objective: To evaluate the usefulness of virtual reality (VR) technique for individualized preoperative planning of sphenoidal ridge meningioma.

Methods: Multiple imaging data of CTA/MR were acquired from 41 surgical patients with sphenoidal ridge meningioma during the period from July 2009 to June 2013 were transferred into the Dextroscope system. A suite of built-in 3D tools enabled users to obtain measurement and simulated intraoperative viewpoint about the lesion and adjacent anatomic structures. A sophisticated preoperative plan was defined.Operative duration, total resection rate, complication rate and KPS scores were compared with control group undergoing routine operation (n = 27).

Results: 3D stereoscopic VR images in accordance with reality were reconstructed for 41 cases. As compared with control group,VR preoperative plan could shorten operative duration and reduce complication rate (P < 0.05). However, there was no improvement in total resection rate or KPS score (P > 0.50).

Conclusions: VR technique of Dextroscope system offers comprehensive information of sphenoidal ridge and related neurovascular anatomical structure. Thus it may aid surgical planning and facilitate individualized operation.