Coughlin, Geoff, Samavedi, Srinivas, Palmer, Kenneth J., Patel, Vipul R.
abstract
Natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) is a developing field with the potential to revolutionize our approach to abdominal surgery. Performing operations via a flexible endoscope introduced through a natural orifice presents several challenges to physicians. Orientation and interpretation of the endoscopic video image can be difficult. The surgeon must also learn to operate with the camera and instruments "in line.'' Advances in technology are currently addressing the challenges of NOTES. Image-guided navigation could potentially provide invaluable assistance during NOTES. Real-time information on spatial positioning and orientation as well as assistance with the identification of anatomy and localization of pathology are some of the possibilities. Image-guided surgery has become commonplace in disciplines such as neurosurgery where the anatomy is relatively rigid. To become widespread in intra-abdominal procedures and NOTES, advances that will allow systems to adapt to moving and deforming anatomy are needed. This article reviews the basics of image-guided surgery, the various image-guided systems, and their potential application to NOTES.