Optical Tracking Technology for Image Fusion in Ultrasound-Guided PCNL Lithotripsy

This prospective cohort study evaluated the safety and effectiveness of optical tracking sensing technology (OTT) in ultrasound-guided percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) for treating staghorn kidney stones. Forty-six patients were divided into two groups: one using OTT for ultrasound-CT fusion image puncture and 3D navigation lithotripsy (OTT group) and the other using conventional ultrasound positioning (CT group). The results showed that the OTT group had significantly shorter main channel positioning puncture time (28.1 seconds vs. 39.4 seconds) and lithotripsy time (48.2 minutes vs. 61.1 minutes), along with a higher stone-free rate (91.3% vs. 71.4%) and better surgeon satisfaction scores (94.2 vs. 81.6). No significant differences were observed in hemoglobin drop, pain scores, or hospitalization days. The use of OTT demonstrated the potential to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of PCNL procedures, making them safer and more effective.