Oncological Augmented Reality: 3D Tumor Visualization for Enhanced Margin Delineation and Surgical Diagnosis

Oncological augmented reality (AR) is revolutionizing the way we approach the treatment of 3D tumors. The ability to visualize tumors in three dimensions not only enhances margin delineation but also optimizes surgical diagnosis. In this context, advanced imaging technology plays a crucial role by providing surgeons with a clearer and more precise view of tumor structures and their relationship with surrounding tissues.

Diving Deeper into 3D Tumor Visualization

The integration of technologies such as mass spectrometry in the surgical environment has enabled significant advances in the identification and classification of brain tumors. A recent study has demonstrated that desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (DESI-MS) can provide rapid and accurate molecular diagnosis of brain tumors, aiding in defining tumor margins by measuring the concentration of tumor cells in a sample. This technology has been correlated with preoperative magnetic resonance imaging through neuronavigation and has been visualized over a 3D volume reconstruction of the tumor in segmented MRI. These findings underscore the potential of environmental mass spectrometry to guide brain tumor surgery by providing rapid diagnosis and near real-time margin assessment (see study).

On the other hand, the steady-state constructive interference imaging (CISS) technique derived from magnetic resonance imaging has proven useful for discerning microneurosurgical anatomy. This technique allows for detailed visualization of the margin between cerebrospinal fluid and neural structures, vessels, and the dura mater. The creation of "real" 3D CISS images has improved the understanding of the relationship between a lesion and surrounding structures prior to neurosurgical procedures, with minimal invasiveness for the patient (see study).

Conclusions

The implementation of advanced 3D visualization technologies in oncological AR is transforming the landscape of surgical treatment for tumors. These innovations not only enhance precision in margin delineation but also optimize surgical diagnosis, enabling surgeons to make more informed and precise decisions. As these technologies continue to evolve, we are likely to see ongoing improvements in surgical outcomes and a reduction in postoperative complications.

Referencias

• [1] Ambient mass spectrometry for the intraoperative molecular diagnosis of human brain tumors.
• [2] "Real" three-dimensional constructive interference in steady-state imaging to discern microneurosurgical anatomy. Technical note.

Created 24/1/2025