Speed, precision and grip force analysis of human manual operations with and without direct visual input

Abstract

Perceptual system of a surgeon must adapt to conditions of multisensorial constrains regard to planning, control, and execution of the image-guided surgical operations. Three experimental setups are designed to explore these visual and haptic constraints in the image-guided training. Results show that subjects are faster and more precise with direct vision compared to image guidance. Stereoscopic 3D viewing does not represent a performance advantage for complete beginners. In virtual reality, variation in object length, width, position, and complexity affect the motor performance. Applied grip force on a surgical robot system depends on the user experience level. In conclusion, both time and precision matter critically, but trainee gets as precise as possible before getting faster should be a priority. Study group homogeneity and background play key role in surgical training research. The findings have direct implications for individual skill monitoring for image-guided applications.