Assessing the Use of Virtual Pointers in Laparoscopic Surgery Training Activities

Laparoscopic surgery has advanced significantly; however, effective communication within the surgical team remains challenging, particularly in training scenarios where misinterpretation of instructions can lead to errors. Virtual pointers, indicating the instructor's gaze through eye-tracking devices and overlaying it onto the screen using augmented reality (AR), can enhance understanding and reduce errors.

In a study involving 10 participants divided into experts and novices in laparoscopic surgery, various pointers (differing in shape, size and colour) were analysed in an AR environment using the HoloLens2 device. The aim was to assess the acceptance of these pointers by both groups, understand how their characteristics affect perception, and evaluate the AR device's usefulness.

Initial results showed an 80% acceptance rate. After analysing the pointers, this decreased to 60%, as some experts changed their opinion from positive to neutral. The study revealed that the characteristics of the pointers significantly affect their perception, with large, thick-rimmed pointers being preferred. Orange was the best-performing colour. The device used also influenced perception, as experts who changed their perception criticised certain aspects of the head-mounted display.

The study highlights the potential of virtual pointers to improve communication in laparoscopic training, particularly when their size, shape, and colour are optimised. Further research with a larger sample size is needed to confirm these results and explore the HoloLens2's influence on users' perceptions. These insights could guide the development of more effective training tools for minimally invasive surgery.