Eye Tracking System Helps Surgeons Access Data

An innovative eye-tracking solution provides surgeons hands-free access to imaging and patient data in sterile surgical environments.

The EyeSeeMed solution integrates with a hospital picture archiving and communication system (PACS) system to enable surgeons, by using only their eyes, to have flexibility and independence to access and process pre- and intra-operative imaging and medical data. The system works by detecting where the eyes are pointing using cameras. Looking at a specific button on the screen works like a mouse for selecting an option, while other basic head motions, such as tilting the head, can be used to navigate through radiological images.

The system is based on Natural User InterAction (NUIA; Munich, Germany) software, a platform agnostic middleware with a main focus on eye tracking, gestures, and speech recognition. The multi-sensor software suite communicates with a computer via natural gaze. The hardware is collaboration between Tobii Technology (Stockhom, Sweden), a world leader in eye tracking, and EsinoMed (Prutting, Germany), a leading manufacturer of individual display solutions for medical and industrial use.

“The EyeSeeMed solution will empower surgeons with hands-free access to critical and time-sensitive data in the operating room by allowing them to simply use their natural eye gaze,” said Oscar Werner, vice president of Tobii OEM Solutions. “This will reduce the complex interactions between the medical imaging instruments and the surgeon, hence making the process much more efficient and safe.”

“At last, the operating doctor can finally call up and process the relevant data and information during an operation himself, without having to leave the sterile environment or be dependent upon additional assistant personnel,” added Peter Spagl, CEO of EsinoMed.

Related Links:
Natural User InterAction (NUIA)
Tobii Technology
EsinoMed