Augmented Reality for Identification of Temporal Bone Anatomy and Comparison to Conventional Imaging

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Surgical Education
• Augmented Reality Applications

Background:

• Temporal bone anatomy is complex, posing challenges for surgical planning and medical education.
• Current methods for visualizing temporal bone anatomy can be difficult for trainees and patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and validate an augmented reality (AR) application for identifying temporal bone anatomy.
• To compare the effectiveness of AR visualization against 2D CT imaging and 3D CT models.

Main Methods:

• Developed an AR application using Slicer, OpenGL, and Angle on Microsoft HoloLens.
• 14 physicians (otolaryngologists and radiologists, trainees and attendings) evaluated the AR app, 2D CT, and 3D CT models.
• Measured identification time, accuracy, and NASA Task Load Index (NASA-TLX) for each modality.

Main Results:

• 3D visualization (monitor or AR) improved speed and accuracy for trainees compared to 2D.
• AR visualization (AR-MH) showed comparable accuracy to 3D models but slightly slower identification times.
• No significant differences in perceived workload (NASA-TLX) were found between modalities.

Conclusions:

• Augmented reality offers an intuitive method for visualizing complex temporal bone anatomy.
• The AR application can serve as an effective tool for surgical planning and medical education, particularly for novice learners.
• Further development and validation of AR tools can enhance anatomical understanding and surgical training.