Smart specs that provide ‘surgeon’s eye’ view to experts around the world
HEART surgeons have carried out a groundbreaking operation using ‘camera glasses’ that allow specialists to bypass Covid restrictions and watch remotely from anywhere in the world.
The glasses were used during the fitting of a pacemaker to heart failure patient John Constable, 65, at the Royal Papworth Hospital in Cambridge, England.
Images of the operation were sent to the technicians behind the highly sophisticated implant, allowing them give instant technical advice from their laptops.
Surgeons say remote assistance is increasingly important given the restrictions on numbers allowed in operating theatres due to coronavirus measures.
Alaina Yardley, lead cardiac physiologist at Royal Papworth, said: ‘The medical technology we use to treat heart failure and arrhythmias is i ncreasingly sophisticated, using complex algorithms that need specialist programming. Traditionally, we would wait for a technical expert to attend procedures, but Covid19 has forced us to find new ways and reduce the number of people in labs.’
The Surgery Assistance glasses were used during the implant of a device which monitors a patient’s heartbeat using Bluetooth-like technology and corrects it using small electrical impulses.
Previously used to help with the manufacturing of precision parts such as in the aviation industry, the spectacles have been adapted for safe use in hospitals.
They are equipped with multiple cameras, a torch and earpiece, and share l i ve video, audio and photos.
Consultant cardiologist Dr Patrick Heck, who wore the glasses during the operation, said: ‘We see this as just the start and t here could be many other opportunities for use of t he smart glasses, from dialling-in other doctors around the world to support on complex cases to training the next generation.’
The hospital’s chief operating officer Eilish Midlane said: ‘This is a fantastic innovation.
‘In the context of a global pandemic, it could not have come at a better time.’
Mr Constable, from Lincolnshire, is doing well after Wednesday’s operation. He said afterwards: ‘I’ve been very well looked after and very impressed with the professionalism.
‘I’ve felt completely safe and would encourage anyone else needing to come to hospital to not delay their treatment.’
Dutch firm Rods&Cones, which developed the glasses, said it was ‘thrilled’ the procedure, part of a partnership with implant makers Medtronic, had been a success.
Co-founder Bruno Dheedene said: ‘Perhaps most importantly we’re delighted we can help healthcare professionals continue their work despite the current Covid-19 restrictions, so that more lives can be saved.’
‘It could not come at a better time’