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Author Spotlight: Revolutionizing Remote Surgery with Augmented Reality and Robotics for Enhanced Precision and Accessibility
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Augmented Reality Microsurgery: Proof of Concept for a Novel Approach to Microsurgical Field Visualization in Plastic
Reuben A Falola1, Nicholas F Lombana1, Nelson A Rodriguez-Unda1
1From the Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Texas A&M Medical School, Baylor Scott & White Memorial Hospital.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|May 23, 2023
Summary
Augmented reality (AR) offers a new way for surgeons to visualize the microsurgical field, improving ergonomics and interaction with monitors. Further advancements in image quality and depth perception are needed for widespread adoption in microsurgery.
Area of Science:
- Microsurgery
- Augmented Reality
- Surgical Technology
Background:
- Microsurgery involves delicate structures like blood vessels and nerves.
- Traditional microsurgical visualization methods have seen limited innovation.
- Augmented reality (AR) presents a novel approach to enhance microsurgical visualization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the utility of AR technology in microsurgery.
- To evaluate surgeon interaction with AR-enhanced microsurgical field visualization.
- To identify areas for improvement in AR systems for surgical applications.
Main Methods:
- A Leica Microsystems OHX surgical microscope feed was transmitted to a Microsoft HoloLens2 AR headset.
- A microsurgeon and residents performed arterial anastomoses on a chicken thigh model.
- Procedures were conducted using the AR headset, surgical microscope, exoscope, and surgical loupes.
Main Results:
- The AR headset provided an unobstructed view of the surgical field and surroundings.
- Users appreciated the head-tracking virtual screen and customizable ergonomic positioning.
- Limitations included lower image quality, latency, and lack of depth perception compared to traditional monitors.
Conclusions:
- AR technology holds significant potential to enhance microsurgical visualization and surgeon interaction.
- Key areas for development include improving screen resolution, reducing latency, and enhancing depth perception.
