A conformable multimodal imaging marker for surgical navigation systems

Abstract

Accurate targeting of the surgical site is essential in minimally invasive surgery. Surgical navigation systems have emerged as a key technology to achieve this goal, enabling real-time guidance through the integration of imaging and tracking techniques. These systems typically utilize reference markers to align images from different modalities. However, most markers are inherently rigid and lack multimodal visibility, leading to patient discomfort and reduced tracking accuracy. Here, we present a conformable electronic device visible in both optical tracking and medical imaging modalities, such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Multimodal visibility was achieved through three components: infrared micro-light emitting diodes (μLEDs) for optical tracking, a metal–elastomer composite for CT contrast, and a non-volatile gel containing an MRI contrast agent for MRI visibility. The device was fabricated on an elastomeric substrate, offering conformal and reliable adhesion to the skin, as well as mechanical stability under tensile strain. A robot-assisted procedure on a breast phantom was performed to evaluate the device’s performance in tumor targeting, combining CT/MRI-derived localization with μLED-based infrared tracking.