Early clinical experience with a touchless image navigation interface for the endovascular suite

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Endovascular Surgery

Background:

• Accessing comprehensive imaging data during endovascular procedures in the sterile field is a significant challenge.
• Current navigation systems are not optimized for sterile environments, potentially impacting clinical decisions and workflow.
• There is a need for innovative technological solutions to facilitate seamless image access.

Observation:

• A novel human-computer interaction (HCI) platform was developed using integrated hardware and software.
• The platform allows intuitive, real-time access to imaging data within the sterile field.
• Pre-clinical testing and validation preceded its introduction into the endovascular suite.

Findings:

• Touchless image navigation demonstrated utility in three observational case reviews.
• The platform facilitated improved decision-making and resource utilization during endovascular procedures.
• It mitigated workflow disruptions associated with leaving the sterile field or involving non-scrubbed personnel.

Implications:

• Physician engagement and needs-based innovation are crucial for advancing HCI in endovascular suites.
• Improved HCI can positively influence procedural decision-making, patient outcomes, and operational workflow.
• This technology offers a solution to enhance efficiency and safety in endovascular interventions.