P004: ENHANCING CLINICAL ANESTHESIA PRACTICE AND EDUCATION THROUGH AUGMENTED REALITY
Giancarlo Atassi, MD; Erick Rodriguez, MD; Brian L Tran, MD; Nirav P Bhavsar, MD, MPS
University of Miami
Introduction/Background: Augmented Reality (AR) and Extended Reality (XR) technologies are increasingly being integrated into clinical practice and education. These modalities offer immersive, interactive, and real-time guidance that can enhance procedural accuracy, improve skill acquisition, reduce complications, and increased ergonomic comfort. In anesthesia, AR/XR applications can be explored for various procedures, including ultrasound-guided intravenous (IV) and central line placements, nerve blocks, arterial line placements, and video laryngoscopy. This study surveys the satisfaction of using AR/XR in improving procedural ergonomics.
Methods: The initial test setup included a Microsoft HoloLens device along with a video laryngoscope with an HDMI output that provided a display in the AR device. The Microsoft HoloLens device was placed on users with a wireless HDMI transmission of the video laryngoscope display. The 6DoF (six degrees of freedom) capability of the HoloLens device allowed for spatial placement of the AR screen ergonomically fitted by the user. The user then interacted with the AR display along with the physical video laryngoscope device to intubate in a simulated setting. Users were then surveyed on the effectiveness of having a spatial display via the AR device.
Results: Initial surveys demonstrate that AR/XR modalities can improve accuracy and efficiency in anesthesia-related procedures due to ergonomic benefits. In video laryngoscopy, AR/XR facilitates airway management by improving ergonomic placement of the display and decreasing footprint of use. User feedback suggests high satisfaction with AR/XR-assisted procedures, with participants reporting increased confidence and improved technical skills.
Discussion: The integration of AR/XR in anesthesia practice and education has shown promising results, particularly in skill acquisition and procedural success rates. By offering enhanced visualization, real-time guidance, and interactive learning experiences, AR/XR technologies can bridge the gap between traditional training methods and real-world clinical applications. However, challenges such as cost, accessibility, and the need for standardized training protocols must be addressed for widespread adoption. Further research is needed to optimize these technologies, assess long-term impacts on clinical outcomes, and explore their potential for broader applications in anesthesiology.