Head-Mount Unit Displays Endoscopic Images

A new head-mount image-processing unit is capable of receiving and outputting three dimensional (3D) endoscope image signals on an accompanying monitor.

The Sony (Tokyo, Japan) head-mount image-processing unit uses organic light-emitting diode (OLED) panels to enable extremely detailed image representation of the target area. Image characteristics include high resolution, superb rendering of blacks, precise color reproduction, and excellent video response times. Independent high definition (HD) images are displayed on the left and right panels (one for each eye, respectively), in order to display the target area in with faithful color reproduction and highly precise information relating to depth.

The head unit is connected to a 3D-compatible endoscope or laparoscope camera. Image control, such as image flipping or dual-screen display, as well as output adjustment, are performed by the processor in real time, with the images delivered to the head-mounted OLED panels in the wearable monitor. The OLED panels emit light the instant electric current is applied, resulting in incredibly fast response performance. The panels can emulate the fast movements of surgical instruments to vividly display images with minimal residual image.

The new display is compatible with both 2D and 3D signal output, and can be switched between them simply by selecting the "Input" button on the image-processing unit. Up to two head-mounted monitors can be connected to a single head-mount image-processing unit, with image selection and Picture in Picture (PinP) capabilities controlled independently for each head-mounted unit. A gap at the bottom of the device enables the wearer to view both the images inside the head-mounted monitor and the actual area of surgery, with just the smallest of eye movements.

Images output can be flipped to the left or right, or rotated 180 degrees. This enables the images to be viewed from each individual's standing position, regardless of the orientation of the endoscopic camera. It is also possible to flip each of the input images horizontally to the left or right, or to vertically rotate the images 180 degrees, and the images can be maintained in this state even when using PinP mode. This feature enables other practitioners observing or assisting the endoscopic surgery from different angles to view the images from their respective viewing position.

In addition to images from the endoscope in the operating theater, other information can also be displayed simultaneously via a wide range of input-output terminals, including DVI and SDI, to ensure compatibility with image signals from various sources. The ability to output the incoming images without modification—the video “through out” function—enables the surgeon to view images using the head-mounted monitor, with the same image information displayed simultaneously on an external monitor, enabling multiple practitioners to share the information in real time.

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