HoloLens open surgeons’ eyes to augmented reality
Surgeons at Northwick Park used high tech glasses to operate on a cancer patient for the first time with the aid of augmented reality.
HoloLens2 allowed the team led Mr Abdul Ahmed to ‘see through’ the patient’s skin by superimposing preoperative scans onto the patient and study the underlying anatomy without making an incision.
A pre-planned surgical model was downloaded into the wearer’s headset and then moved using hand gestures and voice commands so the virtual holographic leg was aligned with the bony anatomical landmarks and skin of the patient.
Chef Linda Malik was the first patient to undergo the new approach.
Linda, 64, said: “It is the first time I’ve ever had surgery let alone understand what HoloLens are. Mr Ahmed promised I wouldn’t miss my cruise holiday so I put my trust in him and the team.”
The mother of three was diagnosed with cancer of the jaw after the hospital discovered a troublesome tooth hide a more serious issue.
The 12-hour procedure involved two surgical team working in tandem.
One team removed the neck glands, diseased jawbone and preparing for the new implant while the second harvested bone from the lower leg which was sculpted into a replacement jaw along with an attached vein and artery.
The final stage was to reconnect the blood supply to the reconstructed jaw, plumbing in the vein and artery to provide a continuous flow of blood to and from the jaw.
The HoloLens, which was developed by Microsoft and powered by Medical iSight software, has a number of possibilities as well as enhancing the planning and precision needed in reconstructive surgery and improving sterility in theatre.
These includes surgical training, simplifying procedures and future developments in 3D telemedicine support.
Linda, a mother of three who lives in Hillingdon, said: “I’m looking forward to seeing my kids and four grandchildren. I’m just relieved the procedure went well and want to thank everyone at the hospital.”