Laparoscopic virtual mirror for understanding vessel structure: Evaluation study by twelve surgeons

Christoph Bichlmeier, Sandro Michael Heining, Mohammad Rustaee, Nassir Navab

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

18 Scopus citations

Abstract

In this paper we present the evaluation of a virtual mirror used as a navigational tool within a medical augmented reality (AR) system for laparoscopy. 12 surgeons of our clinical partner participated in an experiment to evaluate whether laparoscope augmentation extended by a virtual mirror is useful for improved perception of complex structures. Such complex structures are encountered for instance in laparoscopic resection of tumor affected liver tissue. The blood vessels supplying the tumor have to be cut and closed before tumorous tissue can be removed. A laparoscopic camera and an optical tracking system allow for the visualization of visualized medical volumetric data registered with the real anatomy. Previously injected contrast agent provides an accentuation of blood vessels within the visualization. For evaluating the suitability of a virtual mirror to support the mentioned procedure, we designed a phantom consisting of wooden branches simulating the structure of blood vessel trees. Quantitative results of the experiment show the advantage of a mirror in certain cases, when blood vessels cannot be directly seen from the camera point of view due to self-occlusion of the structure. Results of a questionnaire filled out by the surgeons after the experiments confirm the acceptance of AR technology for particular medical procedures.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication2007 6th IEEE and ACM International Symposium on Mixed and Augmented Reality, ISMAR
PublisherIEEE Computer Society
Pages125-128
Number of pages4
ISBN (Print)9781424417506
DOIs
StatePublished - 2007
Event2007 6th IEEE and ACM International Symposium on Mixed and Augmented Reality, ISMAR - Nara, Japan
Duration: 13 Nov 200716 Nov 2007

Publication series

Name2007 6th IEEE and ACM International Symposium on Mixed and Augmented Reality, ISMAR

Conference

Conference2007 6th IEEE and ACM International Symposium on Mixed and Augmented Reality, ISMAR
Country/TerritoryJapan
CityNara
Period13/11/0716/11/07

Keywords

  • Augmented reality
  • Medical visualization
  • Navigated surgery
  • User interaction

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