Development of Low-Cost Surgical Simulator for Neuroendoscopy using Unity3D and HTC VIVE

Abstract

Neuroendoscopy is being utilized more frequently to treat brain tumors and hydrocephalus brought on by tumors. Neuroendoscopy is a minimally invasive operation that requires a lot of skills. Complete training is needed in hospitals to perform this procedure in the operating room. Simulators are necessary to train doctors due to the deficiency of time, resources, cost, and potential risks. With advancements in computer technology, it is becoming more common to simulate and plan surgery using a VR-based simulation. We have created and developed a surgical simulator to provide endoscopic training for the ETV procedure. A method to use multimedia capabilities for learning is to create a virtual 3D simulator using a game engine and render it using VR technology. The user-friendly collaborative environment of the Unity3D game engine offers good features. We have demonstrated how a simplex mesh depiction in a game-based simulator may effectively deform a soft body in actuality. We have successfully developed a method employing Position Based Dynamics to simulate the actual deformation of TM the cancerous brain. According to our study, the HTC Vive is a suitable VR technology for ETV training because it offers excellent precision, quick tactile feedback, a fast frame rate, and a wide field of vision. In the future, this practical tool might replace more costly training simulators.