Usability of Graphical Visualizations on a Tool-Mounted Interface for Spine Surgery.

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Medical Engineering
• Surgical Navigation

Background:

• Accurate pedicle screw placement is critical for successful spinal fusion surgery.
• Current spinal navigation systems face limitations due to visualization complexity and separation from the surgical site.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and evaluate a novel tool-mounted interface (TMI) for pedicle screw placement.
• To assess the impact of the TMI on surgical usability, cognitive load, and performance.

Main Methods:

• A usability study was conducted with 18 surgeons comparing the TMI against traditional external screen visualization.
• System usability, mental demand, and cognitive load were measured using standardized assessments (Kruskal-Wallis test, NASA-TLX).
• Surgical task time was recorded to evaluate performance improvements.

Main Results:

• The TMI demonstrated significant improvements in system usability (p < 0.05).
• Surgeons experienced a significant reduction in mental demand and cognitive load (p < 0.05).
• A significant decrease in surgical task time indicated improved performance (p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

• The TMI enhances usability and reduces cognitive burden in spinal fusion surgery.
• This interface offers a more integrated and effective approach to surgical navigation.
• The TMI shows potential for improving precision and efficiency in pedicle screw placement.