The Urology Clinic of the Military Medical Academy (MMA), led by Prof. Iliya Saltirov, has introduced VENUS, Bulgaria’s first intelligent magnetic navigation system incorporating artificial intelligence (AI).
The introduction of the system further strengthens the Military Medical Academy’s role in the digitalisation of Bulgarian healthcare and the adoption of advanced medical technologies.
On its first day of clinical use, four specialised procedures were successfully performed: a high-precision MRI–ultrasound fusion biopsy in a patient with a prostate lesion classified as highly suspicious (PI-RADS 4) on MRI, and three percutaneous nephrolithotomies (PCNL) in patients with large, complex kidney stones and challenging renal anatomy, Prof. Saltirov explained.
The VENUS system combines multimodal image fusion with a high-speed 3D graphics processing core. Its AI algorithms automatically process, overlay and fuse images from previously acquired CT or MRI scans with real-time ultrasound images during the procedure.
Automatic recognition and segmentation:
The system’s AI algorithms automatically segment the target organ in approximately one minute and identify and delineate regions of interest (ROIs) and lesions. This can reduce the subjective element of image interpretation and assist surgeons in accurately guiding biopsy needles or instruments, with milimetre-level precision.
3D navigation:
Real-time electromagnetic tracking allows the trajectory of the needle during renal puncture in PCNL to be continuously monitored. This provides additional procedural guidance and may help reduce the risk of bleeding, infection and unintended injury to surrounding tissues and organs.
Reduced radiation exposure:
The technology enables renal puncture to be performed without X-ray radiation during this stage of the procedure, reducing the need for conventional C-arm fluoroscopy and limiting radiation exposure for patients and medical staff.
The introduction of VENUS makes the Military Medical Academy the first medical centre in Bulgaria and one of the pioneers in Europe to implement this technology.
According to Prof. Iliya Saltirov, the Academy’s continued investment in artificial intelligence, advanced medical equipment and professional development is intended to support safer and more effective treatment for patients.
