Preliminary experience and feasibility test using a novel 3D virtual-reality microscope for otologic surgical procedures

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Current surgical microscopes suffer from inherent constraints in achievable viewing angles and require manual interaction to control settings. Overcoming these limitations may provide benefits for otologic surgical procedures. OBJECTIVES: We present a first feasibility and usability assessment of a novel commercial surgical microscope featuring a virtual-reality interface and hands-free control of a robot-mounted 3D-camera. MATERIALS AND METHODS: feasibility tests were conducted in a human cadaveric head sample based on common otologic procedures. Usability metrics were obtained from feedback forms. In a first clinical case, the device was used to perform a tympanoplasty in a 68-year-old patient with a subtotal tympanic membrane perforation. RESULTS: tests and the first clinical case included hands-free control, visualization quality, and teaching potential. CONCLUSIONS AND SIGNIFICANCE: The novel virtual reality 3D-microscope bears potential to provide benefits for various otologic procedures, which will be evaluated more quantitatively in clinical follow-up studies.