Precise placement of spinal cord stimulation electrodes is essential for effective therapy; yet current procedures provide limited visibility inside the surgical field. We developed a
radiation-free neuronavigation system for intraoperative assistance based on electromagnetic tracking, which sends fast-responsive sensor data through a custom
Python pipeline to a 3D digital model of the spine. The system was validated using a structured testing protocol and a 3D-printed spinal phantom to assess spatial accuracy
and system delay. Electromagnetic tracking achieved millimetric accuracy, even when the sensor was fully out of view. Across 50 measurements, the system showed a mean error of 0.280±16 mm and an RMS error of 0.630±16 mm. Latency testing using a high-frame-rate camera showed a mean end-to-end delay of 124.87±30.16 ms. Phantom experiments
confirmed stable accuracy and responsive visualization during simulated electrode insertions. This work demonstrates the feasibility of fast-responsive, radiation-free electromagnetic navigation as a potential tool to improve precision and safety in spinal procedures
First Published on June 4, 2026
Last Updated on June 4, 2026 by Zhaoshun Hu