Surgical Navigation System enable surgeon in executing and performing the medical procedure

Surgical Navigation System is a computer-assisted procedure that allows surgeons to track the exact position of instruments by projecting the data from preoperative imaging onto the operating room (OR) map. The technology is often compared to GPS tracking, where users can see their location on a map before setting off. It consists of a computer workstation and hardware for tracking the position of surgical instruments. Both electromagnetic and optical tracking is available. Electromagnetic tracking is preferred by most sinus surgeons.

Surgical Navigation System has various advantages and this is creating its demand in healthcare sector. It is increasingly being used in surgeries ranging from ENT surgery to oral and maxillofacial surgery. It can even help with implant dentistry, visceral radiosurgery, and orthopedics. The new technology is becoming so advanced that computers will be used in the operating room. This means surgeons won't have to spend time looking over cutting guides to perform a procedure. It also makes the surgical process faster and safer.

To perform navigation during surgery, a high-resolution CT scan is used. The scan is loaded into a computer workstation on the day of surgery. The navigation software uses the CT scan to interpret images, and also collects positional data from the tracking system. Surgical navigation technology starts with registration, which aligns the anatomy of the patient with the preoperative CT scan. It is a necessary step for calibration of surgical navigation technology. Once this process is complete, the surgeon can view where the surgical instruments are relative to the preoperative imaging.

A Surgical Navigation System will not only help the surgeon plan and execute the procedure, but will also aid the surgeon in performing the procedure. It is possible to use a portable iPod as the navigation system, which is draped in a sterile bag and easily accessible. An advanced navigation system is crucial to ensuring the best possible outcome. Thus, the market is expected to witness significant growth due to growing technological advancement in the field of medical device.

Neurologists use the navigation system for diagnosis and therapy, making it possible to achieve more precise results. ENT navigation systems are expected to expand at the fastest rate over the forecast period, due to increased incidences of ENT illnesses and the growth of new product launches and partnerships. This technology is available in different surgical settings, including ENT and plastic surgery. And with so many uses, it is no surprise that more surgeons are choosing this technology for their patients.

The effectiveness of this technology depends on a few factors. First, it is accurate. Surgical Navigation System can add 30 minutes to the overall time for surgery. One such study was performed in a cadaver and used an EM navigation device to track the location of the mandible during surgery. But, it is not foolproof. Even though the system is reliable, it can cause errors during the procedure. That's why surgeons need to be cautious and use the navigation system carefully.