External Ventricular Drain Placement Teleproctoring Using a Novel Camera-Projector Navigation System: A...

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Medical Education Technology
• Surgical Simulation

Background:

• Teleproctoring is an emerging bedside clinical teaching method with limitations in current technology.
• Novel 3D environmental information and feedback systems may enhance neurosurgical teaching, including external ventricular drain placement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of a novel camera-projector system for teleproctoring neurosurgical procedures.
• To assess the system's impact on the speed and accuracy of identifying key anatomical landmarks.

Main Methods:

• A proof-of-concept study utilized a camera-projector system to proctor medical students on placing external ventricular drains on an anatomic model.
• The system captured 3D environmental data and provided real-time projected annotations.
• Students were randomized to use the navigation system or not, with time and accuracy measured.

Main Results:

• The experimental group using the navigation system identified Kocher's point 130 seconds faster than the control group (P < 0.001).
• Mean distance from Kocher's point was 8.0 mm (experimental) vs. 23.6 mm (control) (P = 0.053).
• 70% of the experimental group achieved accuracy within 1 cm, compared to 40% in the control group.

Conclusions:

• Camera-projector systems are a viable technology for bedside procedure proctoring and navigation in neurosurgery.
• The study demonstrated viability for external ventricular drain placement, suggesting potential for more complex procedures.