Computer generated visual assistance during retroperitoneoscopy.

In this paper we present a system of computer assisted surgery, the function of which is to enhance the real time feedback between the patient's body, the surgical tools and the surgeon. We show using such a system during some surgical operations--in our case, retroperitoneoscopy. After giving the requirements for such a system, we describe the components currently used in our experiments. We detail the different problems and our current solutions; photographs of an experiment carried out on a cadaver and of classical operations are shown in this paper.