The operating room is a high-stakes environment where precision, efficiency, and access to information are critical. WICOAR HealthVision OR is transforming surgical procedures by harnessing the power of augmented reality (AR) to provide surgeons and surgical staff with real-time access to crucial data and tools, right in their field of vision.
A New Era of Surgical Precision:
While a surgeon performs a complex procedure, their eyes must be focusing on the surgical field. At the same time, critical information such as the patient’s vital signs, 3D anatomical models, and surgical checklists appear seamlessly within their line of sight, overlaid onto the real world through AR glasses. This is the transformative potential of WICOAR HealthVision OR.
By integrating with hospital information systems and medical imaging devices, HealthVision OR provides surgeons with a hands-free, heads-up display of essential data and visualisations, enhancing their situational awareness and precision during surgery.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Streamlined Workflow: HealthVision OR displays vital signs, imaging data, surgical plans, and checklists directly onto the surgeon’s AR glasses, eliminating the need to look away from the surgical field. This reduces distractions, improves efficiency, and allows for better focus on the task at hand.
- Enhanced Precision: With hands-free access to 3D anatomical models, surgical plans, and real-time guidance, surgeons can perform procedures with greater accuracy and confidence. This can potentially lead to improved surgical outcomes and reduced complications.
- Real-time Collaboration: HealthVision OR facilitates remote collaboration by enabling experts from anywhere in the world to view the surgical field through the surgeon’s eyes and provide real-time guidance. This expands access to specialised knowledge and enhances the learning experience for trainees.
- Reduced Cognitive Load: By presenting information in a clear and intuitive manner within the surgeon’s natural field of view, HealthVision OR reduces cognitive load and allows for better decision-making during critical moments.
- Improved Efficiency: With streamlined access to information and tools, surgical procedures can be performed more efficiently, potentially reducing operating time and improving resource utilisation.
How HealthVision OR Works:
HealthVision OR utilises advanced AR technology to overlay digital information onto the real world through lightweight, comfortable smart glasses. These glasses connect wirelessly to the hospital’s network and securely access patient data, surgical plans, and medical images. Surgeons can interact with the AR overlays using voice commands or subtle hand gestures, maintaining sterility and focus.
Transforming the Operating Room:
WICOAR HealthVision OR is revolutionising the surgical experience by:
- Improving Surgical Precision: AR-powered visualisations and guidance enhance accuracy and reduce the risk of errors.
- Enhancing Collaboration: Real-time remote collaboration expands access to specialised expertise and facilitates knowledge sharing.
- Optimising Workflow: Streamlining access to information improves efficiency and reduces distractions in the OR.
- Empowering Surgeons: Providing surgeons with the tools and information they need to make confident decisions and deliver the best possible care.
The Future of Surgery:
WICOAR HealthVision OR represents a major leap forward in surgical technology. By integrating AR into the operating room, it empowers surgeons with enhanced precision, improved efficiency, and greater access to information. As healthcare continues to embrace digital innovation, solutions like HealthVision OR will play a vital role in shaping the future of surgery.
About Hola 5G Oulu:
Hola 5G Oulu is a pioneering initiative led by Boldyn Networks, in collaboration with WICOAR Technologies, Oulu University Hospital, Pohde and the University of Oulu. The project aims to leverage 5G technology and wearable solutions to enhance patient care, improve efficiency, and empower healthcare professionals. See more about the project here.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or European Health and