Application of Near-Infrared Optical Localization Systems in Surgical Navigation

Recently, China’s first remote single-arm, single-port robotic surgery was successfully completed in Lhasa, marking another significant breakthrough in telemedicine. With continuous advancements in surgical techniques, robotics, and other technologies, these innovations are playing a key role in empowering medical development and achieving critical technological breakthroughs. In the realm of surgical treatment, particularly in surgical navigation, the application of near-infrared optical localization systems has significantly enhanced the efficiency and accuracy of the entire surgical navigation process. Not only does it make the surgeon's movements smoother and more stable, but it also increases the success rate of surgeries.

1. What is a Near-Infrared Optical Localization System?

This system is a high-precision localization device based on binocular stereo vision technology. It utilizes a binocular vision system made up of two near-infrared cameras to capture the three-dimensional coordinates of a target object. Infrared LEDs are fixed around the optical axis of the two cameras to illuminate the target. The infrared light emitted by the LEDs is reflected back to the cameras by the markers on the surgical instruments. The cameras capture the images of these markers, and through computer-assisted digital image processing, the markers are identified and located. By calculating the three-dimensional coordinates of the markers, the system can determine the position and orientation of the surgical instruments, thus enabling precise navigation during surgery.

2. Wide Applications of the Near-Infrared Optical Localization System

Due to its high precision and operational stability, this system has a wide range of applications across various fields. In addition to its use in surgical navigation and robotic surgery systems—where it provides real-time imaging and precise positioning and tracking of surgical instruments, significantly improving the efficiency and safety of surgeries—the system is also applicable in medical rehabilitation, sports analysis, virtual reality (VR), and other research and product applications that require precise motion tracking.

In the industrial measurement sector, near-infrared optical localization systems can offer accurate three-dimensional spatial coordinates for product quality control and precision assembly. In the fields of virtual reality and simulation, the system provides real-time dynamic tracking, enhancing the realism of user experiences.

3. CHINGMU’s Binocular Localization System

At the first Global Surgical Robotics Conference, CHINGMU’s binocular camera, Smart, drew significant attention from attendees. During the conference, a demonstration of surgical needle insertion was conducted using the Smart camera. The surgical probe was inserted into a model thigh at the simulated “patient site,” and the camera’s high-precision localization capabilities allowed for detailed observation of the “patient site.” Meanwhile, the screen displayed the real-time simulation of the puncture procedure on a virtual patient’s thigh on the virtual operating table. This effect was made possible by the camera’s precise localization and its ease of use, requiring no calibration.

Additionally, when combined with virtual reality (VR) headsets and other related equipment, operators can immerse themselves in a simulated surgical environment, experiencing the procedure firsthand. This provides a practical platform for educational research and daily training, enabling better theoretical learning and surgical practice simulation.

Currently, CHINGMU offers several binocular localization cameras, including Smart, Rigor, and Nano, which are widely applicable in scenarios such as surgical navigation, medical rehabilitation, industrial robot positioning, smart blackboards, and virtual studios. With advantages such as high-precision capture, low latency, minimal blind spots, and a wide capture range, these systems provide a comprehensive and superior motion capture experience for various users.