Randomized control trial of a holographic needle guidance technique for thoracic epidural placement.

Introduction: The Microsoft HoloLens is a head-mounted mixed reality device, which allows for overlaying hologram-like computer-generated elements onto the real world. This technology can be combined with preprocedural ultrasound during thoracic epidural placement to create a visual of the ideal needle angulation and trajectory in the users' field of view. This could result in a technically easier and potentially safer alternative to traditional blind landmark techniques.

Creating a Successful Virtual Reality-Based Medical Simulation Environment: Tutorial.

Innovation in medical education is not only inevitable but a requirement. Manikin-based simulation is currently the gold standard for supplemental clinical training; however, this modality requires significant equipment and personnel to operate. Virtual reality (VR) is emerging as a new method of delivering medical simulation sessions that requires less infrastructure but also allows for greater accessibility and flexibility.

Development of a Head-Mounted Holographic Needle Guidance System for Enhanced Ultrasound-Guided Neuraxial Anesthesia: System Development and Observational Evaluation.

Background: Neuraxial anesthesia is conventionally performed using a landmark-based technique. Preprocedural ultrasound is often used in challenging clinical scenarios to identify an ideal needle path. The procedure is then carried out by the operator recreating the ultrasound needle path from memory.