ROCHESTER, Minn. — Mayo Clinic researchers have unveiled a groundbreaking 3D surface scanning method that enhances precision in brain surgeries.
This new technology offers neurosurgeons sub-millimeter accuracy by aligning a patient’s head and facial features with brain images, potentially improving outcomes in delicate procedures.
Mayo Clinic says the innovative approach, detailed in the Journal of Neurosurgery, surpasses the accuracy of traditional CT scans while eliminating radiation exposure. It promises safer, more efficient surgeries like deep brain stimulation and biopsies by integrating with most surgical navigation systems.
Jaeyun Sung, Ph.D., led the engineering efforts, emphasizing the collaboration between engineers and neurosurgeons. “This is about building the next generation of surgical tools that bring engineering-level, sub-millimeter precision directly into the operating room,” Sung said.
Neurosurgeon Kendall Lee, M.D., Ph.D., highlighted the method’s impact on surgical preparation. “This new 3D scanning method is safe, quick and cost-effective, and it can help us hit the right target more accurately,” Lee said.
Looking ahead, Basel Sharaf, M.D., D.D.S., envisions the technology evolving with AI advancements. “In the future, 3D surface scanning could be as simple as using a smartphone,” Sharaf said.
The Mayo Clinic team is working on adding automation and AI to streamline the process and is conducting a larger clinical trial to further assess its effectiveness.
