Augmented reality: The use of the PicoLinker smart glasses improves wire insertion under fluoroscopy

AIM To demonstrate the feasibility of the wearable smart glasses, PicoLinker, in guide wire insertion under fluoroscopic guidance. METHODS Under a fluoroscope, a surgeon inserted 3 mm guide wires into plastic femurs from the lateral cortex to the femoral head center while the surgeon did or did not wear PicoLinker, which are wearable smart glasses where the fluoroscopic video was displayed (10 guide wires each). RESULTS The tip apex distance, radiation exposure time and total insertion time were significantly shorter while wearing the PicoLinker smart glasses. CONCLUSION This study indicated that the PicoLinker smart glasses can improve accuracy, reduce radiation exposure time, and reduce total insertion time. This is due to the fact that the PicoLinker smart glasses enable surgeons to keep their eyes on the operation field.