Augmented Reality in Ultrasound-Guided Interventions: an accuracy and precision assessment study

Smaller, affordable ultrasound equipment is widely used, but image quality issues require specialized training. Augmented reality (AR) enhances training but faces challenges in development tools, real-time tracking, and costs. The proposed system utilizes Meta Quest3, interacting with the Clarius L15, an ultrasound simulator. The AR platform employs Touch Plus controllers to track the US probe and biopsy needle, allowing the physician to maneuver the probe freely regardless of movement. To evaluate this method's viability, the accuracy and precision of the Touch Plus controllers in instrument tracking were studied and compared to a commercial electromagnetic tracking system. Experiments showed that the proposed strategy achieved an accuracy of 0.68 degrees +/- 0.55 degrees and a precision of 0.36 degrees +/- 0.03 degrees in 12 different orientations and positions. The results demonstrated the proposed approach's effectiveness in tracking instruments without external markers in various orientations and positions, indicating its potential for clinical practice.