Ergonomic Assessment

The ergonomic concerns of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) can be divided into two categories: the impact of tools on procedures and the physical requirements of the procedures. Some concerns are in the domain of computer science, and through the use of multi-projector display systems, REVEAL is developing solutions to many of these problems.

Ergonomic Assessment The Tools MIS cameras are quite small, as they have to fit on the end of long, thin arms (like all other MIS instruments). Using the traditional monocular camera and 2D display causes not only a loss of luminance and chrominance, but more importantly loss of depth perception. Most studies involving 3D displays in a surgical setting have proved ineffective and have no definitively improved performance or comfort. Many have even resulted in headaches, nausea, and eyestrain. This is due in part from what has been used to produce 3D images: polarized or shuttered glasses, VR goggles, displays with very poor viewing angles, etc.

Ergonomic Assessment REVEL is developing a massive multi-projector 3D display that will increase both brightness and quality.

Ergonomic Assessment The physical requirements: The traditional layout of an operating room is also a cause for concern. The standard display setup for an MIS procedure involves a CRT monitor on top of a mobile tower, which takes up valuable space in the surgical theater. The most natural position for a doctor is to be standing between the legs of a patient, with the display located above the patient's head. However, this space is generally reserved for the anesthesiologist, so the surgeon's display may be placed off to one side, or at an uncomfortable height. Surgeons must be able to hold awkward postures for long periods of time, and adding undue stress on the body and neck to view a display fatigues him or her much more quickly.

Ergonomic Assessment With multiple projectors, surgeons can create an arbitrarily-sized image, anywhere they choose. The calibration system used can display images on any arbitrary geometric shape (domes, curved walls, etc.), which allows surgeons to tailor the image based on their needs, preferences, and unique features of the OR.

Ergonomic Assessment In addition, a modern OR is filled with the noise of various monitors, machines, paging systems, etc., all of which work independently of each other. This can complicate or even confuse surgeons. After a massive multiple projector display is fully developed. REVEAL can begin to create an integrated GUI, which incorporates information from disparate sources and present them in a relevant and useful fashion.