Pilot study on the application of augmented reality navigation for sacral neuromodulation and sphenopalatine ganglion stimulation.

This pilot study evaluates the feasibility and efficacy of augmented reality navigation as an auxiliary tool for electrode implantation in sacral neuromodulation and sphenopalatine ganglion stimulation. A prospective single-center observational study was conducted involving four patients. AR navigation, utilizing the Microsoft HoloLens® 2 and specialized software, was employed for preoperative planning and real-time guidance during needle placement. Intraoperative fluoroscopy was reserved for final electrode position verification. Technical accuracy was assessed by calculating the Fiducial Registration Error (FRE). The mean FRE was 3.5 ± 1.75 mm, deemed clinically acceptable. AR navigation facilitated successful electrode implantation in all cases, significantly reducing intraoperative fluoroscopy time to 0.1 ± 0.1 min and mean radiation dose to 0.7 ± 0.5 mSv—an order of magnitude lower than standard fluoroscopy-guided procedures. The technology provided continuous 3D visualization, enhancing spatial understanding and procedural accuracy. Augmented reality navigation presents a promising, low-radiation alternative for complex neuromodulation procedures. It enables precise real-time 3D guidance, potentially improving safety and efficacy. Further standardization and multi-center studies are warranted to validate its clinical adoption and integration.