Dr. Chao Yuan-Ping, Department of Ophthalmology
Oculoplastic surgery involves reconstructive and cosmetic procedures of the eyelids, orbit, and lacrimal system. These operations often target deep structures located near the optic nerve and vascular plexus, where the surgical space is extremely limited and the risks are high. Thus, “precision” is the ultimate goal. With advances in technology, oculoplastic surgery has entered a new era of navigation-assisted techniques, improving both safety and surgical success rates.
What Is an Oculoplastic Surgery Navigation System?
An oculoplastic surgery navigation system is an image-guided surgical technology that integrates preoperative high-resolution imaging (such as CT or MRI) with intraoperative tracking systems. It allows surgeons to confirm anatomy and monitor instrument positioning in real time—like giving surgery a “3D GPS.”
This system provides a visual display of orbital bones, blood vessels, nerves, and lesion locations, helping surgeons operate with precision in complex anatomy while avoiding critical structures.
Applications and Indications
Navigation systems are particularly beneficial in high-risk or anatomically complex surgeries, including:
1. Orbital tumor excision – Defines tumor boundaries clearly, enabling complete removal while avoiding damage to the optic nerve and eyeball.
2. Orbital fracture reconstruction (medial wall or floor repair) – Guides bone graft or implant placement, improving symmetry and reducing risks of enophthalmos and diplopia.
3. Lacrimal system reconstruction and dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) – Avoids sinuses and blood vessels for higher safety and success rates.
4. Orbital decompression for thyroid eye disease – Assists in accurately removing orbital bone or fat while protecting the optic nerve.
5. Biopsy or drainage of infectious/inflammatory orbital lesions – For orbital abscesses, chronic cellulitis, or atypical granulomatous disease, navigation pinpoints the core lesion, enabling safe biopsy and drainage while minimizing injury to surrounding structures.
6. Eyelid and orbital reconstruction – Improves symmetry and functional outcomes in large defect repairs or post-resection reconstructions.
System Advantages and Patient Benefits
•Greater precision and safety – Prevents accidental injury to nerves and vessels, reducing complications.
•Shorter surgery and faster recovery – Improves efficiency and minimizes unnecessary manipulation.
•Better cosmetic outcomes – Especially beneficial in bilateral reconstructions requiring symmetry.
•Enhanced preoperative planning – Allows surgical simulation of lesion location and approach.
•Higher patient trust and satisfaction – A more transparent, visualized procedure increases confidence.
Surgical Workflow
Our hospital utilizes the Medtronic electromagnetic navigation system (StealthStation™ S8), which offers real-time, radiation-free tracking—ideal for navigating the narrow and delicate structures of the orbit and nasolacrimal system.
1.Imaging & Planning – Preoperative CT scans are imported into the StealthStation system. Using dedicated software, a 3D anatomical model is created, marking the lesion (e.g., tumor, abscess, lacrimal sac, orbital floor defect) and key structures (optic nerve, extraocular muscles, lacrimal sac).
2.Registration – During surgery, non-contact electromagnetic sensors establish patient positioning. A reference frame is fixed to the patient’s forehead or cheekbone, and tracked instruments are aligned with anatomical landmarks to calibrate the system.
3.Real-time Navigation –During operation, the system continuously shows the exact instrument location relative to the lesion and nearby anatomy, helping avoid the optic nerve and globe—especially useful in deep infections or atypical inflammatory cases.
4.Surgical Execution – Under navigation guidance, lesions are excised, abscesses are drained, or biopsies are performed. Compared with blind exploration, electromagnetic navigation significantly reduces errors and collateral tissue damage, improving diagnostic accuracy and safety.
5.Postoperative Review – Imaging and pathology can be compared to confirm complete lesion removal or biopsy site accuracy, supporting postoperative education and quality assessment.
Conclusion: Technology That Makes Oculoplastic Surgery Safer
By integrating advanced imaging and digital navigation, oculoplastic surgery navigation systems bring a revolutionary improvement to traditionally high-risk orbital procedures. Particularly in deep-seated lesions, complex fractures, difficult infections, and reconstructive surgeries, navigation significantly enhances precision and outcomes.
As this technology matures, it will benefit more ophthalmic surgeries, making care safer, more effective, and increasingly personalized.
For more details about indications or surgical planning, please consult with our ophthalmology team—let navigation technology be your trusted partner in protecting both vision and appearance.