HoloUS: Augmented Reality Visualization of Live Ultrasound Images Using HoloLens for Ultrasound-guided Procedures

What this Trial Is About

Minimally invasive ultrasound-guided procedures are widely used in medicine but can be challenging due to the need for practitioners to coordinate between viewing the patient, advancing the needle, and watching a separate ultrasound screen. This research aims to develop and evaluate an advanced augmented reality (AR) platform that could simplify this hand-eye coordination by displaying live ultrasound images as holograms through wearable AR glasses. The study is conducted to assess if this technology can make ultrasound-guided procedures more intuitive, easier, and safer. Participants will use the HoloUS app with HoloLens see-through AR glasses to visualize live ultrasound images during a vascular access procedure performed on a phantom model. This is a single-arm study where each participant evaluates the HoloUS app and effectively serves as their own control. The technology aims to integrate the ultrasound image directly into the practitioner's field of view to enhance precision and efficiency. During the study, researchers will measure the total time taken from needle puncture to successful fluid aspiration, as well as the number of needle attempts and head adjustments needed. Participants are employees trained in point-of-care ultrasound procedures who provide oral consent. The study includes assessments of task completion time and user interactions with the AR visualization, with a goal to reduce procedure time by 20%. Participants may be monitored throughout their involvement, which includes the use of the AR device and the simulated procedure on the phantom.

Augmented Reality Ultrasound Guidance