Illuminating precise stencils on surgical sites using projection-based augmented reality

Abstract

In this paper we propose a system that connects surgeons to remote or local experts who provide real-time surgical guidance by illuminating salient markings or stencils (e.g. points, lines and curves) on the physical surgical site using a projector. The projection can be modified in real time by the expert using a GUI and can be seen by all in the operating room (OR) without the use of any wearables. This system overcomes the limitations of AR/VR headsets which can overlay information through a headset, but are obtrusive, not very accurate with movements, and visible only to the surgeon excluding others in the room. Overlaying information, at high precision, directly on the physical surgical site that can be seen by everyone in the OR can become an useful tool for skill transfer, expert consultation and training, especially in telemedicine.

In addition to the projector, the system comprises of a RGB-D camera (e.g. Kinect) for feedback, together designated as the PDC (Projector Depth Camera) unit. The PDC is driven by a PC. The RGB-D camera provides depth information in addition to an image at video frame rates. A high resolution mesh of the surgical site is captured using the PDC unit initially. During the surgical planning, training or execution session, this digital model can be marked by appropriate incision markings on a tablet or monitor using touch based or mouse based interface, on the same local machine or after being transmitted to a remote machine. These markings are then communicated back to the PDC unit and illuminated at high precision via the projector on the surgical site in real time. If the surgical site moves during the process, the movement is tracked and updated quickly on the surgical site. Our method specifically overcomes the obtrusive, exclusive, and indirect attributes of headsets and displays while maintaining high accuracy of registration with movements.