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Augmented reality simulation framework for minimally invasive orthopedic surgery
Antonio Cangelosi1, Giacomo Riberi2, Paolo Titolo3
1Intravides SRL, Via Cristoforo Colombo, 1, Torino, 10124, Italy; DET, Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi, 24, Torino, Italy; Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", Università degli Studi di Torino, Corso Massimo D'Azeglio, 52, Torino, 10126, Italy.
This study introduces a novel augmented reality (AR) simulation for minimally invasive surgery (MIS) training. The system enhances surgical skill development and reduces iatrogenic risks by providing accurate, real-time feedback for orthopedic procedures.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Medical Simulation
- Augmented Reality (AR)
Background:
- Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) offers patient benefits but increases the risk of iatrogenic damage due to limited visibility.
- Augmented reality (AR) can mitigate these risks by overlaying surgical information, yet implementation challenges exist.
- A gap remains in accessible surgical skill development resources for trainees in MIS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel simulation paradigm for orthopedic surgery training.
- To address the challenge of mental spatial navigation in MIS procedures.
- To demonstrate the effectiveness of an AR-based simulation for skill development and risk reduction.
Main Methods:
- Developed a cost-effective, reproducible surgical training simulation framework.
- Implemented a surgical gesture tracking system using a commercial depth camera.
- Created a simulation platform with Computer Vision, X-ray simulation, and AR modules, utilizing game engines for virtual medical instrumentation.
Main Results:
- Validated system performance through texture analysis and application accuracy evaluation.
- Achieved high accuracy in simulating surgical device insertion (screws, K-wires), with comparative measurements showing R>0.9 (p<0.01).
- Demonstrated a relative point-to-point accuracy of 1.02mm (SD 2.82mm), confirming the system's value for learning and AR development.
Conclusions:
- The developed AR simulation system is a valuable tool for learning MIS procedures and for AR system developers.
- The simulation effectively minimizes the risk of iatrogenic injury to neural and vascular structures.
- Future work includes clinical implementation and integration of advanced AI technologies.
