Spectral Video in Image-Guided Microsurgical Applications: Integrating Imaging Technology into the Clinical Environment and Ergonomic Considerations

Numerous visualization tools are involved in surgeon's decision making during a procedure. Image-guided navigation systems such as computed tomography and magnetic resonance have become an integral part of many surgical procedures. In tumor removal microsurgeries, the distinction between a tumor tissue and surrounding normal tissues are often negligible, highly impacted by color contrast and illumination of operative field. To enhance surgical decision making, we investigate the use of real-time spectral imaging in operating room. Coupling a spectral camera with a surgical microscope, however, is challenging due to numerous standards and ergonomic requirements of operating room. In this paper, we fulfill these ergonomic considerations and describe the process of integration of spectral camera in the clinical environment.