Intraoperative digitale 3D-Modell-basierte Schnellschnittchirurgie bei Kopf-Hals Tumoren

Background: Achieving complete tumor resection is the foundation of oncological therapy for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), a malignancy located in a complex anatomical region. In reality, studies reveal that up to 30–40% of resections are incomplete or have insufficient margins. This study explores the feasibility of generating 3D models of tumor resectate surface topography and their integration into a custom digital communication platform to improve intraoperative collaboration between surgeons and pathologists during frozen section pathology.

Methods: A pilot study was conducted involving 10 HNSCC patients undergoing surgical resection. Using a LiDAR scanner and photogrammetry software, we created digital 3D models of the surface topography of fresh surgical specimen. These models were integrated into a custom digital platform for visualization and annotation of regions of interest. Annotated 3D models were subsequently reviewed with pathologists to evaluate their potential to improve communication and diagnostic precision during frozen section analysis.

Results: The creation of 3D models of tumor resectates using a LiDAR scanner demonstrated to be cost-effective and efficient for head and neck cancer. Four independent pathologists assessed the application, highlighting the enhanced communication and visualization capabilities provided by the 3D models. The models were compatible with other software programs, enabling further investigations into surface topography and therapeutic planning.

Conclusions: This study demonstrates the feasibility of using LiDAR-based 3D modeling to enhance frozen section pathology. By integrating these models into a digital communication platform, the process of intraoperative decision-making can be significantly enhanced, fostering better collaboration and improving the precision of oncological resections in head and neck cancer.

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