The study seeks to assess the efficacy of incorporating augmented reality (AR) or virtual reality (VR) technology into ultrasound-guided medical procedures such as regional anesthesia and line placement. By utilizing AR/VR devices, the investigators will improve the ergonomics when using ultrasound to guide procedures. The aims are to enhance visualization of anatomical structures and improve procedural accuracy for clinicians. The study aims to evaluate the feasibility, and effectiveness of integrating AR/VR technology into ultrasound-guided procedures, with the ultimate goal of improving patient outcomes.
The investigators aim to learn several key insights from this study. Firstly, they hope to determine the extent to which augmented reality (AR) or virtual reality (VR) technology can enhance the precision and accuracy of ultrasound-guided medical procedures, such as regional anesthesia and line placement. This includes evaluating whether AR/VR visualization leads to improved needle placement and reduced complication rates. Furthermore, the investigators aim to evaluate the usability and acceptance of AR/VR technology among clinicians, considering factors such as user experience, comfort, and integration with existing workflow processes. The importance of this new knowledge lies in its potential to improve medical practice by leveraging cutting-edge technology to improve patient outcomes and expand access to quality healthcare globally. If AR/VR proves to be effective in enhancing procedural accuracy, it could lead to significant advancements in healthcare delivery, particularly in underserved communities and resource-limited settings by leveraging remote care. Additionally, insights gained from this study could inform the development of future AI assisted AR/VR applications in medicine, driving innovation and improving the standard of care across various medical specialties.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
NA
Purpose
DIAGNOSTIC
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
100
Participants will receive the intervention, which involves utilizing AR/VR technology during ultrasound-guided procedures (e.g., regional anesthesia, line placement). All participants will receive standard pre- and post-block or line care as they normally would for the ultrasound-guided procedure.
Stanford University
Stanford, California, United States
Procedure success rate (Primary Block)
Document the block result in pre-op, if feasible, or PACU by testing sensory (cold spray) and motor function on all nerves covered by the block
Time frame: Document the block result pre-operatively (at least 30 min following block completion), or within one hour upon arriving to PACU
Post-operative opioid consumption
Morphine milligram equivalents (MME) will be measured post-operatively
Time frame: 12 hours after surgery
Post-operative pain scores
Trend pain scores on 11-point NRS scale (from 0 to 10) following the procedure
Time frame: 12 hours after surgery
Clinician satisfaction
A short survey will be utilized to gather data on clinicians' perceptions of the ease of use, effectiveness, and overall experience with AR/VR tools compared to traditional methods.
Time frame: Within 24 hours of block completion
Procedure duration
Time of procedure from initial needle insertion to needle removal will be calculated
Time frame: During the procedure
Needle pass/redirection
The number of times a clinician must remove the needle from the patient completely and reattempt will be calculated.
Time frame: During the procedure
Needle visualisation
A subjective score will be assessed on a short survey to clinicians.
Time frame: Within 24 hours of block completion
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