Risk assessment methodology for trajectory planning in keyhole neurosurgery using genetic algorithms.

Background: Preoperative assessment to find the safest trajectory in keyhole neurosurgery can reduce post operative complications.

Methods: We introduced a novel preoperative risk assessment semiautomated methodology based on the sum of N maximum risk values using a generic genetic algorithm for the safest trajectory search.

Results: A set of candidates trajectories were found for two surgical procedures.