Ultrasound-guided Interventions With Augmented Reality Visualization: A Randomized Crossover Study Investigating Trainees' Performance and Cognitive Load During Skill Acquisition

BACKGROUND: A significant challenge facing novice physicians is mastering ultrasound(US)-guided procedures, such as central venous catheter (CVC) placement. CVC placements are typically performed on critically ill patients and demand precision and speed. Physicians are often required to switch focus between the ultrasound screen and the patient, memorize multiple images, coordinate hand-eye movements, and interpret 2D images in a 3D context simultaneously. These complexities pose challenges in spatial orientation and impose a considerable cognitive load, affecting both learning and performance. Within the pedagogical landscape, medical educators are exploring the potential merits of Augmented Reality (AR) via head-mounted displays to enhance immersive learning experiences in clinical settings. This study aimed to determine whether AR could ease challenges related to spatial orientation and cognitive overload during this procedure and ultimately enhance skill acquisition for trainees.

Intervention:

Prior to the commencement of the trial, all participants verified their previous training in ultrasound-guided CVC placement. They also provided their written informed consent. The participants are set to be split into two groups as part of a crossover design: the first group will initially be subjected to the traditional ultrasound-guided CVC placement, whereas the second group will begin with the AR-assisted CVC placement

STUDY IMPLICATIONS:

Leveraging AR technology in skill acquisition may reduce trainees' cognitive burden and improve trainee efficiency during ultrasound-guided CVC placement procedures..