Computer-assisted interventions (CAI) is a field of research and practice, where medical interventions are supported by computer-based tools and methodologies. Examples include:
- Medical robotics
- Surgical and interventional navigation
- Imaging and image processing methods for CAI
- Clinical feasibility studies of computer-enhanced interventions
- Tracked and guided biopsies
- Alignment of pre-procedure images with the patient during the procedure
- Intraoperative decision supports
- Skill analysis and workflow studies in CAI
- Clinical studies of CAI showing first-in-man or early efficacy results
- User interfaces and visualization systems for CAI
- Surgical and interventional systems
- Novel surgical devices and sensors
- User performance studies
- Validation and evaluation of CAI technology
The basic paradigm of patient-specific interventional medicine is a closed loop process, consisting of
- combining specific information about the patient with the physician's general knowledge to determine the patient's condition;
- formulating a plan of action;
- carrying out this plan; and
- evaluating the results.
The experience gathered over many patients may be combined to improve treatment plans and protocols for future patients. Computer-based technology assists medical professional in processing and acting on complex information .[1]