Microscope Navigation

Seamless viewing.
Improved ergonomics.

The way microscopes are used in the O.R. is in transition: Brainlab accommodates neurosurgeons’ needs in both the traditional approach of looking through the ocular as well as the more recent utilization of exoscope video images displayed on a dedicated screen. Reflective markers attached to the microscope enable visual tracking of optical axis and focal point. Combined with the new robotic capabilities of microscopes, navigation now plays an indispensable role in performing state-of-the-art surgeries.

• Auto-detection of connected microscope minimizes setup effort

• Seamless integration with Brainlab Cranial and Spine Navigation software

• Support of all major vendors of surgical microscopes

Augmented reality has become an essential technology in neurosurgery. Microscope Navigation visualizes the planned surgical target and surrounding structures as semi-transparent volumes mixed with the anatomy seen, providing better spatial orientation throughout the procedure. Touch-based rotation of the displayed 2D video image or Probe’s Eye reconstruction reveals underlying structures in 3D for more anatomical insight.

• Immediate Maximum Intensity Projection (MIP) for more vascular detail

• Virtual 360° Target view improves assessment of critical areas, e.g. aneurysm

• Visualization of eloquent fiber tract information

In order to maintain navigation accuracy, especially after craniotomy, anatomy shift can now be visualized by comparing vessels on the cortex with their corresponding MIP. Patient registration is then updated through touch-based matching of vessels and MIP on the navigation screen.

• Correct initial patient registration based on anatomical landmarks

• Adjustable windowing to ensure clear MIP

• Repeated updates possible whenever required and feasible

Microscope Navigation not only displays relevant information on the navigation screen but also injects this data directly into the ocular, providing surgeons meaningful context without distracting from the surgical situation.

• Augmented visualization supports approach planning and spatial orientation

• Picture-in-Picture navigation views contribute to more ergonomic viewing

• Navigation remote control via microscope hand grip

Using a microscope should always be ergonomic, efficient and ideally handsfree. Microscope Navigation supports autonomous, full robotic alignment to any navigated instrument, planned trajectory or anatomical landmark, eliminating the need for surgeons to reposition the microscope by hand.

• Full robotic alignment of microscope in six degrees of freedom with ZEISS KINEVO® 900

• Auto-alignment to planned trajectory or navigated instrument axis (e.g. NICO BrainPath®)¹

• Robotic alignment in three degrees of freedom with e.g. HS 5-1000, Leica ARveo and Zeiss microscopes

• Continuous repositioning according to defined anatomical landmark

• Follow and focus on navigated instrument tip