Clinical factors affecting the accuracy of a CT-based active infrared navigation system

Background: Computer-assisted navigation technology has been widely used during spine surgery; however, the desired accuracy cannot be easily obtained and sustained. Our goal was to determine whether and how clinical factors affect the accuracy of a CT-based active infrared navigation system. Methods: Using the Sawbone model, we recorded the clinical accuracy of the navigation system, based on several clinical statuses. Results: Clinical accuracy may change when the height or angle of the bed is changed. Within the visible area of the camera, the nearer the distance between the camera and the model, the better the clinical accuracy. The clinical accuracy of the CT-based active infrared navigation system may decrease due to exposure to shadowless lamps. Conclusions: The clinical accuracy of the CT-based active infrared navigation system may be influenced by the clinical status of shadowless lamps, different distances between the camera and model and different postures of the surgical bed.