Objective

To determine the feasibility of a novel low-barrier-to-entry image guidance system.
Methods

Initially a randomized crossover study was performed to establish the interface (iPad or 3-dimensional mouse) that minimized both the amount of time required to perform a manual image registration and the error of that registration. A subsequent clinical feasibility study was undertaken on 5 patients undergoing robot-assisted partial nephrectomy. Randomized crossover study primary outcomes were time to task completion, NASA–Task Load Index score, and alignment error (translational and rotational). The Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare groups. Surgeon feedback was sought when assessing the system in a clinical setting.
Results

In the initial randomized crossover study, the iPad-based system was able to achieve adequate alignment accuracy (Frobenius norm of 0.3; total error of 20.8 mm) in significantly less time (33 seconds; P <.01) than the 3-dimensional mouse interface. The platform received good feedback from the operating surgeon in all instances with the surgeon commenting particularly on the improved appreciation of hilar vascular anatomy.
Conclusion

In this study, we have demonstrated the feasibility of a “low-barrier-to-entry” image guidance system in a clinical setting. The system was able to achieve swift and sufficiently accurate alignment, with little impact on the surgical workflow.