Augmented Reality-Assisted Ultrasound Breast Biopsy

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Surgical Technology
• Augmented Reality Applications

Background:

• Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer death, necessitating effective screening and diagnostic procedures.
• Ultrasound (US) imaging is crucial for guiding breast biopsies, but traditional methods can be improved for accuracy.
• Enhanced visualization and real-time feedback are needed to improve the precision of US-guided breast biopsies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate an augmented reality (AR) visualization system for ultrasound (US)-guided breast biopsies.
• To enhance lesion visualization and needle trajectory guidance for improved biopsy accuracy.
• To assess the usability and performance of the AR system compared to traditional biopsy methods.

Main Methods:

• Developed an AR system utilizing smart glasses that track QR codes on an US probe and biopsy needle.
• Integrated real-time US images into the user's field of view, highlighting lesions and displaying needle trajectory.
• Evaluated system latency and conducted a usability study comparing the AR prototype with a traditional approach.

Main Results:

• The AR system demonstrated significantly more precise needle alignment (92.67 ± 2.32°) compared to the traditional system (89.99 ± 37.49°).
• Users achieved more accurate lesion targeting with the proposed AR visualization system.
• The AR system exhibited good performance in tracking and visualization, with acceptable latency for US image transmission.

Conclusions:

• The proposed AR visualization system offers a promising advancement for US-guided breast biopsies.
• AR glasses can effectively serve as a tracking and visualization device, enhancing precision and accuracy in biopsy procedures.
• This technology has the potential to improve outcomes in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.