4D Imaging

In 2006, Accuray introduced the industry's first solution that combined the power of robotic radiosurgery with either 3D or 4D diagnostic quality computer tomography (CT) scanning in the treatment room. With advanced imaging technology, clinicians could visualize the exact location of the tumor and its surrounding critical structures, immediately prior to treatment, to ensure the radiosurgery procedure delivers the treatment as planned. The 4D imaging system ensured clinicians had access to diagnostic quality images and 4D image data in unmatched acquisition time. Once positioned on the robotic couch, the patient underwent a CT scan, which allowed the clinician to quickly verify the treatment plan and the exact location of the tumor and adjacent critical structures. Without moving the patient from the treatment table, the RoboCouch System then transitioned the patient from the CT scanner to the Cyber Knife System where the patient received radiosurgery treatment.

What is 4D imaging in robotic surgery?

4D imaging in robotic surgery represents the combination of 3D imaging and real-time, or "time-varying" data (the fourth dimension, hence "4D").

The use of 3D imaging in robotic surgery is already an established technique, allowing for enhanced precision by providing surgeons with a three-dimensional perspective of the surgical field. These images can be rotated and manipulated for optimal viewing during the procedure, providing depth perception that is crucial in intricate procedures.

The introduction of the fourth dimension, time, involves the continuous updating of these 3D images in real-time as the procedure is ongoing. This could involve capturing the movement of organs due to breathing or blood flow, for example, and allowing the surgeon to see and respond to these changes immediately.

In essence, 4D imaging in robotic surgery involves a dynamic and constantly updated 3D visual representation of the surgical area, allowing surgeons to respond to changes within the body as they occur. This contributes to safer, more efficient surgical procedures and has the potential to significantly improve outcomes in a wide range of surgical disciplines. It is a developing field and we can expect many improvements and advancements in the future.