Image guided stereo biopsy

This paper deals with the development of a system prototype used as auxiliary tool in the thyroid biopsy. This prototype is based on a system of localization of the pathology, composed by a mini gamma camera. Analyzing a set of scintigraphic images, taken from different positions, it is possible to find the three-dimensional localization of the disease. Using a couple of stereoscopic cameras the bioptic needle can be tracked, so that the surgeon can know the instantaneous relative position between the needle and the disease. Exploiting these systems, it has been developed a semi-automatic tool for the guide of the bioptic needle.