Preoperative Planning Modalities for Meningoencephalocele: New Proof of Concept

Late surgical correction of meningoencephalocele is a rare scenario that remains challenging for surgeons. Three-dimensional models can mimic the correct anatomical relationships, and technological systems have brought advances to medicine. This study aims to present a novel preoperative planning modality that combines augmented reality with a hybrid model for complex malformation associated with late correction. The present report describes a case of frontoethmoidal encephalocele of a 10-year-old girl. Two different methods for planning the approach were developed: 1) a hybrid hands-on model and 2) augmented reality, using a cell phone app and headset display. The customized hybrid model was created based on patient's imaging. The augmented reality app was developed with a real-time interface. The hybrid model recreated anatomic alterations, thereby allowing a multidisciplinary team to determine an appropriate surgical approach. All aspects of the surgical procedure were simulated. A pre- to postoperative comparison was made, which emphasized benefit of tridimensional anatomical relationships using augmented reality tool and its role in preoperative planning. The authors believe this new multimodality preoperative platform could be a useful method to improve multidisciplinary discussion as well as a powerful tool for teaching and planning.