Virtual cochlear implantation with 3D video control. A new tool to improve quality and outcome for cochlear implantation in regular and complex cases.

摘要

Combining experiences with the Voxel Man simulator for temporal bone surgery as well as 3 dimensional videotaping of surgical procedures, we present a new patient specific training concept for surgical simulation under 3D video control. Introduction In cochlear implantation there is a trend to observe towards more complex and challenging cases. Due to the outcome and performance standard, cochlear implantation allows for implantation of very young kids, malformated ears or in complex situations after previous middle ear surgery which can make anatomical orientation in cochlear implantation challenging for the surgeon. Being prepared even for non standard anatomical situations should therefore be a goal prior to temporal bone surgery, which is difficult to reach according to the high amount of temporal bones required for every single surgeon to have experienced an appreciable number of anatomical varieties.