Augmented-Reality Neuro-Navigation Proof of Concept Study, Version 1.0
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Augmented-Reality Neuro-Navigation Device, Proof of Concept and Registration Accuracy Assessment Study
IRAS ID
264531
Contact name
David Eagle
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 1 months, 13 days
Research summary
The study is to assess the usability/proof of concept and accuracy of a novel software-based prototype neuro-navigation device for use in neurosurgery.
Computer-based neuro-navigation systems are well established as a key piece of equipment for performing cranial neurosurgery. They are used to guide accurate drain placement, biopsies, surgical approaches and assessing the extent of tumour resections. Existing systems take CT and MRI scans and generate a 3-dimensional image that is displayed on an LCD screen. They then use visual tracking of surgical instruments to register then display the position of instruments relative to the 3-dimensional image of the patient’s head so as to orientate and guide the surgeon with respect to structures beneath the skin.
With the advent of augmented-reality headsets such as the Microsoft HoloLens there has been interest globally in exploiting their capabilities to develop a new generation of neuro-navigation system. The headsets allow the wearer to see their environment through tinted glass but can superimpose 3-dimensional holograms using a ‘head-up’ style display. Combined with spatial recognition the device can relate holograms to the real environment.
The study’s Chief Investigator has developed a HoloLens-based software prototype that uses a patient’s CT scan to generate a 3-dimensional hologram of their skull and brain that when ‘registered’ to the same position as a patient’s head enables the wearer to visualise structures under the skin in-situ. This brings significant advantages over conventional systems including allowing the surgeon to see structures at his fingertips rather than having to coordinate his hand movements while looking at a computer screen.
The study serves to assess the usability and accuracy of the software device only, the participant's surgery will be carried out using existing proven neuro-navigation methods. THE PROTOTYPE DEVICE WILL NOT BE USED TO GUIDE THE SURGERY OR PATIENT MANAGEMENT IN ANY WAY.REC name
South West - Frenchay Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
19/SW/0192
Date of REC Opinion
24 Oct 2019
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion