One major limitation of this setup is that X-rays only show the spine in two-dimensions. When an image is taken, an X-ray would only show the position of the spine in the x and y direction but not the z-direction, so a single X-ray image is not enough to determine the depth of an epidural needle injection. Thus, surgeons have to take multiple X-rays to ensure the needle is correctly placed inside the patient. Consequently, another limitation is that patients are exposed to high radiation during the surgery. The high radiation exposure increases the risk of postoperative complications for patients such as cancer. Another limitation is the lack of real time needle tracking. Since the position of the needle can only be known one image at a time, surgeons have to often work slowly and methodically to ensure the needle is placed correctly. A fourth limitation is the steep learning curve to learn the procedure. The lack of visual information provided from a fluoroscopy machine makes it hard for new surgeons to learn the procedure, and this may pose additional risks on patients receiving treatment from training surgeons.

One potential solution is the use of a surgical navigation system. Surgical navigation systems provide guidance to surgeons by providing needle tracking. This allows surgeons to know the exact position and orientation of the needle in real time. Currently, there are several systems available on the market. However, most of them have similar issues. One of the most notable issues is the cost. Many surgical navigation systems on the market are very expensive. For instance, the StealthStation S8 by Medtronic costs over $600,000. Another issue is most of these systems still rely on x-ray images, so patients are still exposed to high radiation during the surgery. Thus, our team aimed to create a cheaper surgical navigation system that is still just as effective if not more effective than current surgical navigation systems available on the market.