Remote Surgical Training Video Transmission System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Developing countries face challenges in adopting advanced surgical procedures like shoulder arthroscopy due to lack of specialized training and equipment, leading to suboptimal treatment options and increased disability among patients.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for remotely teaching surgical procedures by transmitting live video of the surgeon and surgical instruments, along with annotations, between an operating room and a remote location, enabling real-time instruction and training.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If one-on-one in-person guided training is used to teach surgical procedures, then training quality and skill transfer are improved, but availability and accessibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses video cameras to create visual copies of the surgical procedure being performed. Multiple cameras capture different views (surgeon's perspective, patient anatomy, surgical instruments) and transmit these images remotely. This allows trainees to observe the procedure as if present in the operating room, providing high-quality training without requiring physical presence. The video transmission system effectively copies the surgical experience and makes it accessible to multiple locations simultaneously.
2Adaptability or versatility
If simulators are used to increase availability of arthroscopy training, then accessibility is improved, but training effectiveness and skill improvement are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a video transmission system as an intermediary between the actual surgical procedure and the trainee. Instead of using abstract simulators that may not accurately represent real surgery, the system transmits real-time video footage of actual surgical procedures being performed. This intermediary approach provides authentic surgical experience while maintaining accessibility, as trainees can observe real procedures from remote locations without needing to be physically present in the operating room.
3Reliability
If specialized equipment and training programs are implemented in developing countries, then surgical capability is improved, but cost and resource requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal training system that can be deployed in various settings with different resource levels. The core components (video cameras, transmission system, display devices) can be implemented at different scales and complexities. Developing countries can receive training through existing infrastructure (internet connections, standard display devices) without needing to build complete specialized training facilities. The system adapts to available resources while providing consistent training quality.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of teaching a surgical procedure includes transmitting a first video, from a first location to a second location remote from the first location, of a surgeon in an operating room performing the surgical procedure on a patient with at least one surgical instrument. The method also includes transmitting a second video, from the first location to the second location, of the surgical instrument during the surgical procedure, annotating the second video with at least one annotation, and transmitting, from the first location to the second location, the at least one annotation overlaid on the second video.