Neuronavigation

Neuronavigation combines detailed scans, a computer and a tracking system into a single guidance tool. Before surgery, MRI and CT images are merged into an exact three-dimensional model of the patient's anatomy, showing the lesion together with the surrounding nerves and blood vessels. In the operating room, a camera tracks the position of the surgical instruments and matches them to this model, so the surgeon sees, on screen, precisely where the tip of an instrument is in relation to the target and to structures that must be protected. It functions much like satellite navigation, but mapped onto the individual patient's own anatomy.

At the start of the operation, the navigation system is registered to the patient so the on-screen model lines up exactly with the real anatomy. As the surgeon works, the position of the instruments is shown live on the three-dimensional images, confirming the planned route and the depth and direction to the target. This allows deep or hard-to-see lesions to be reached through the smallest safe opening, and warns the surgeon as critical structures are approached. The technology guides and informs the surgeon, who plans the operation, makes every decision and performs every step.

Neuronavigation supports surgery rather than treating a condition on its own. It is widely used in brain tumour surgery, in vascular operations such as cerebral haemorrhage and arteriovenous malformation, in biopsy of deep lesions, and in spinal surgery, including the accurate placement of screws. It is particularly valuable when a target is small, located deep within the brain, or surrounded by vital structures, where a clear map and real-time guidance make the operation safer and more precise. The surgical team decides when navigation is appropriate based on the planned procedure and the imaging.

By showing the surgeon exactly where to work in real time, neuronavigation improves accuracy, supports smaller and more targeted approaches, and helps protect healthy brain tissue, nerves and blood vessels. This can mean more complete treatment of the target with less disruption to surrounding structures, which may support a smoother recovery. For the patient, the navigation is part of the operation itself and needs no separate procedure, although high-quality scans are taken beforehand to build the map. The care team explains the overall operation, recovery and follow-up as part of the surgical plan.