Use of the Avegant Glyph Head-Mounted Virtual Retinal Projection Display to Perform Vitreoretinal Surgery

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the use of a novel retinal projection display in vitreoretinal surgery. Methods: The Avegant Glyph virtual retinal display, which uses a light-emitting diode and micromirror array to project directly onto the retinas of the user, was evaluated. This unit was modified for better operating room characteristics. It was evaluated by 6 surgeons performing mock vitreoretinal surgeries. Results: The majority reported high 3-dimensional (3-D) depth rendition, little hindrance to communication, and high confidence to perform procedures. Due to a small ocular size, surgeons conveyed that the Glyph provides a novel enhanced view for performing procedures benefiting from simultaneous intra- and extraocular visualization such as scleral depression. Safety analysis by performing fundus autofluorescence after 2 hours of Glyph operation did not reveal any gross qualitative change. Conclusion: Use of the Avegant Glyph to perform vitreoretinal surgery may provide ergonomic advantages, while its visualization and high 3-D stereoscopic depth rendition instill high surgeon confidence to safely perform procedures. We are performing further studies with objective data to validate the potential of this technology.