Surgeons try working with Google Glass computer devices

Wearable computers expected to assist in medical procedures

(ANSA) - Milan, April 16 - Italian medical experts say they expect great things following a test run Wednesday using Google Glass - a kind of wearable computer that fits the user's face like a pair of smart eyeglasses. The device was put through a trial in the Humanitas Institute in Rozzano, and the hands-free Google Glass devices are now expected to help to record patient information as well as take photos during procedures without the doctor ever being required to set down a scalpel.

The institute said it is also expected that surgeons will be able to transmit medical information as they see it during procedures to other specialists. "Having the point of view of the doctor engaged in a delicate surgery" is valuable, said Patrizia Presbitero, who is responsible for hemodynamics - the study of blood flow - and cardio interventions at the institute.

Google Glass devices can also be used during training courses, so students can closely follow a surgeon's hand movements in the operating room via the device. It is also hoped that voice-activated features will make it possible for other health professionals, such as anesthesiologists, to readily view a patient's vital signs and refer to patient files including medical history at the same time.

The first Glass products combining a tiny screen, camera and audio on a device worn at eye level are expected to go on sale to the general public in 2015. Numerous high-end eyeglass manufacturers are already signing up for deals with Google Glass to use the technology in what is being called the "emerging smart eyewear market".