Image Guide System For Sinus Surgery
(also known as the Navigational System).
What is the Image-guided system (IGS)?
The Image-Guided System, also known as the Navigational System, is a virtual 3D model and mapping of the patient's
sinus anatomy, and an interactive display of the sinus surgeon's instruments during surgery.
Most sinus problems go away on their own. Some are caused by bacterial infection and can easily be treated with
prescribed and over-the-counter medicines and saline sprays. Others, however, are more complex and may require
sinus surgery. The procedure usually involves opening up the sinus pathways and clearing blockages.
Sinus surgery is also the main treatment for chronic sinusitis, polyps, deviated or crooked septums, as well as other structural abnormalities.
How does the IGS work?
One such surgical procedure utilizes the image-guided system (IGS), which greatly enhances precision, safety and accuracy of the procedure.
IGS can be divided into three stages:
Before surgery – Capture a 3D anatomical model of the patient’s sinuses, usually via CT scans or MRI. This stage shows the precise location of the blockage, and enables the ENT doctor to determine the least invasive way to access it.
During surgery – Use of the 3D model and tracked instruments (e.g. endoscopes) to guide the sinus surgeon in accessing the sinus area. The process is displayed in real time on a monitor.
After surgery – Capture another 3D model to ensure that the blockage has been removed.