A wearable headset for monitoring electromyography responses within spinal surgery.

PURPOSE: This research examines an approach for enhancing the efficiency of spinal surgery utilising the technological capabilities and design functionalities of wearable headsets, in this case Google Glass. The aim was to improve the efficiency of the selective dorsal rhizotomy neurosurgical procedure initially through the use of Glass via an innovative approach to information design for an intraoperative monitoring display.

METHODS: Utilising primary and secondary research methods the development of a new electromyography response display for a wearable headset was undertaken.

RESULTS: Testing proved that Glass was fit for purpose and that the new intraoperative monitor design provided an example platform for the innovative intraoperative monitoring display; however, alternative wearable headsets such as the Microsoft HoloLens could also be equally viable.

CONCLUSION: The new display design combined with the appropriate wearable technology could greatly benefit the selective dorsal rhizotomy procedure.