Expert subjective comparison of haptic models for bone–drill interaction

Abstract

Purpose

A haptic algorithm to simulate the interaction between a surgical drill and bone using a constraint-based algorithm has been previously demonstrated. However, there has been no blinded study to determine whether this algorithm is preferred by professionals who commonly use this type of system

Methods

Fourteen otologic surgeons were presented with a spring–damper model and a constraint-based model of drill–bone interaction rendered on a low-cost haptic device with only linear feedback. The participants were blinded as to what algorithm they were using. They then answered survey questions about their opinions of the models.

Results

The surgeons overwhelmingly preferred the constraint-based model. They generally preferred the constraint-based model in the individual questions as well.

Conclusions

Follow-up work can be done to fine-tune the parameters in the model, but this study shows that a sophisticated algorithm can make a significant difference even on a low-fidelity haptic device.