Real time computer assisted surgical navigation

Several studies have proved the efficacy of computer assistance in spinal surgery, especially in the technique of pedicle screw insertion for vertebral fusion and correction of deformities. Computer assisted surgical navigation systems have proven success in the surgical treatment of spinal fractures and disorders. We have developed a novel method for real time computer assisted spinal surgery, based on online video captured by using CCD camera. The paper presents a real time computer assisted spinal surgery for pedicle screw insertion. A video is considered to be a sequence of frames. Image processing techniques applies to video processing as well, however speed of processing is crucial for real time video processing. A system consisting of workstation computer, image sensors or cameras, digitizer and image processing hardware have been used for real time video processing.