Accepted for/Published in: Journal of Medical Internet Research
Date Submitted: Mar 16, 2021
Date Accepted: Jul 27, 2021
Use of an augmented reality device for remote supervision of ultrasound examinations: An international exercise science project
ABSTRACT
Background:
Support for long-distance research and clinical collaborations is in high demand in general, increased by Covid-19 travel and social contact restrictions. New digital approaches are needed for remote scientific exchanges.
Objective:
This project aimed to analyze the options of using an augmented reality device for remote supervision of exercise science examinations.
Methods:
A mobile ultrasound examination of the diameter and intima-media thickness of the femoral and carotid arteries was remotely supervised via a head-mounted augmented reality device. A video of the technique was shown to all participants by providing a YouTube link in advance. In part 1, eight international experts from the fields of engineering and sports science were remotely connected to the study setting. Internet connection speed was noted, and a structured interview was performed. In part 2, two remote supervisors evaluated eight physicians performing the examination in a healthy human subject. Results were recorded, and an evaluation was made (25-item questionnaire).
Results:
In part 1, the remote experts were connected over a mean distance of 1587 kilometers to the examination site. Overall transmission quality was good (mean upload speed: 28.7 mbps, mean download speed: 97.3 mbps, mean ping: 21.6 ms). In the interview, participants indicated the main potential benefits would be in the fields of education, movement analysis and supervision. Challenges were encountered regarding internet connection stability and prior training with the devices used. In part 2, physicians´ examinations showed a good rater correlation (Interclass Correlation Coefficient: 0.84). Participants valued the experienced setting as highly positive.
Conclusions:
The study showed good feasibility of the chosen design and a highly positive attitude of all participants towards this digital approach. Head-mounted augmented reality devices seem in general recommendable for use in collaborative research projects with physical examination-based research questions.
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