Anke Neurosurgical Navigation System

Developed by Shenzhen Anke High-tech Co., Ltd. in 2000, this neurosurgical navigation system marked China’s first domestically developed surgical navigation platform for brain procedures. The system integrates preoperative imaging data with intraoperative instrument tracking to guide neurosurgeons during stereotactic and open cranial procedures.

Product Overview

The Anke Neurosurgical Navigation System represents a pioneering effort in Chinese surgical technology development. Launched at the turn of the millennium, it addressed the need for image-guided surgical assistance in neurosurgical departments across Chinese hospitals.

Building on Anke’s established expertise in medical imaging, particularly MRI and CT systems, the navigation platform leverages the company’s core competencies in image acquisition, processing, and visualization. This integration between imaging hardware and navigation software provides a cohesive workflow from diagnosis through surgical intervention.

Key Features

Preoperative Planning Module

• Import and process CT and MRI imaging data
• 3D reconstruction of anatomical structures
• Trajectory planning for stereotactic procedures
• Target and entry point selection with safety margin visualization

Intraoperative Navigation

• Real-time instrument tracking during surgery
• Overlay of planned trajectories on live surgical field
• Distance-to-target feedback for surgeons
• Registration verification tools

Image Fusion Capabilities

• Multi-modality image registration (CT/MRI)
• Functional imaging integration where available
• Anatomical landmark identification

Technical Specifications

Approved in China in 2000 with CE and FDA clearance also obtained, the Anke Neurosurgical Navigation System uses optical tracking with CT and MRI input for stereotactic biopsy, DBS electrode placement, and tumor resection planning.

Clinical Applications

The system supports various neurosurgical procedures requiring precise localization:

Stereotactic Biopsy: Enables accurate targeting of intracranial lesions for tissue sampling with minimized trajectory through critical structures.

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS): Assists in electrode placement for movement disorder treatment, including Parkinson’s disease and essential tremor.

Tumor Resection Planning: Provides preoperative visualization of tumor boundaries relative to eloquent brain areas.

SEEG Electrode Placement: Supports stereo-electroencephalography procedures for epilepsy surgery planning.

Regulatory Status

The system achieved NMPA registration as China’s first domestically developed neurosurgical navigation platform, establishing Anke’s position in the surgical guidance technology market.

Market Context

The Anke Neurosurgical Navigation System entered the market during a period when imported navigation systems dominated Chinese neurosurgery departments. By offering a domestically manufactured alternative, Anke provided hospitals with options that included local technical support and service capabilities.

The system has been deployed in hospitals across China, contributing to the broader adoption of image-guided neurosurgical techniques in the Chinese healthcare system.

Frequently Asked Questions

What procedures does the Anke Navigation System support?

The system supports stereotactic biopsy, deep brain stimulation electrode placement, tumor resection planning, and SEEG electrode placement for epilepsy surgery. It is designed for any neurosurgical procedure requiring precise localization based on preoperative CT or MRI imaging.

How does the Anke system compare to imported navigation systems?

The Anke system was China’s first domestically developed neurosurgical navigation platform. While imported systems from companies like Medtronic and Brainlab dominated the market at the time of its launch, the Anke system offered advantages in local support, service response times, and cost structure for Chinese hospitals.

Is Shenzhen Anke developing newer navigation or robotic systems?

Building on its foundation in neurosurgical navigation, Anke has been developing advanced cranial surgery robotic systems that combine navigation technology with robotic assistance. The company’s experience with surgical navigation provides a technical foundation for next-generation surgical robotics applications.