Background Availability of patient-specific image data, gathered from preoperatively conducted studies, like computed tomography scans and magnetic resonance imaging studies, during a surgical procedure is a key factor for surgical success and patient safety. Several alternative input methods, including recognition of hand gestures, have been proposed for surgeons to interact with medical image viewers during an operation. Previous studies pointed out the need for usability evaluation of these systems.
Objectives We describe the accuracy and usability of a novel software system, which integrates gesture recognition via machine learning into an established image viewer.
Methods This pilot study is a prospective, observational trial, which asked surgeons to interact with software to perform two standardized tasks in a sterile environment, modeled closely to a real-life situation in an operating room. To assess usability, the validated “System Usability Scale” (SUS) was used. On a technical level, we also evaluated the accuracy of the underlying neural network.
Results The neural network reached 98.94% accuracy while predicting the gestures during validation. Eight surgeons with an average of 6.5 years of experience participated in the usability study. The system was rated on average with 80.25 points on the SUS.
Conclusion The system showed good overall usability; however, additional areas of potential improvement were identified and further usability studies are needed. Because the system uses standard PC hardware, it made for easy integration into the operating room.
BACKGROUND
Medical photography is an integral part of patient care, playing an important role in wound management, in particular, but also in planning surgical therapy or patient and medical education. Smartphones are increasingly used and due to medicolegal reasons, usability, and efficiency, in particular, it may be superior to digital cameras.
OBJECTIVE
Aim of this panel study was to assess if implementation of a specialized smartphone app for medical photography would lead to an increase usage and efficiency of it.
METHODS
With the help of weekly questionnaires, this single center panel study compared the use of digital cameras and smartphones with a specialized app for medical photography. The study took place at a level 1 trauma center from June to November 2020.
RESULTS
65 questionnaires were assessed for digital camera use and 68 for smartphone use. Usage increased significantly by 5.4±1.9 times/week (95% CI [1.7;9.2]; P=.005) when the smartphone was used. The time it took to upload pictures to the PACS was significantly shorter for the app (1.8±1.2min) than for the camera (14.9±24.0h) (P<.001).
CONCLUSIONS
Specialized smartphone apps offer a secure, fast, and easy way to acquire medical photos and could possibly improve patient education and care in terms of wound management, in particular, while also offering medicolegal and economic benefits.
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