Summary:
In this thesis we present what is, to the best of our knowledge, the first
framework for training and assessment of fundamental psychomotor and procedural
laparoscopic skills in an interactive Augmented Reality (AR) environment. The
proposed system is a fully-featured laparoscopic training platform, allowing
surgeons to practice by manipulating real instruments while interacting with
virtual objects within a real environment. It consists of a standard
laparoscopic box-trainer, real instruments, a camera and a set of sensory
devices for real-time tracking of surgeons’ actions. The proposed framework has
been used for the implementation of AR-based training scenarios similar to the
drills of the FLS® program, focusing on fundamental laparoscopic skills such as
depth-perception, hand-eye coordination and bimanual operation. Moreover, this
framework allowed the implementation of a proof-of-concept procedural skills
training scenario, which involved clipping and cutting of a virtual artery
within an AR environment.
Comparison studies conducted for the evaluation of the presented framework
indicated high content and face validity. In addition, significant conclusions
regarding the potentials of introducing AR in laparoscopic simulation training
and assessment were drawn. This technology provides an advanced sense of visual
realism combined with a great flexibility in training task prototyping, with
minimum requirements in terms of hardware as compared to commercially available
platforms. Thereby, it can be safely stated that AR is a promising technology
which can indeed provide a valuable alternative to the training modalities
currently used in MIS.
Keywords:
Augmented reality, Minimal invasive surgery, Surgical simulation, Training, Assessment
