Use of eyewear for high definition video recording in surgical training

Abstract

u p he requirement of the European Working Time Directive EWTR) that operating time for trainees should be reduced as highlighted the need to maximise the educational benets from every encounter.1 The ability to video procedures rom the operator’s perspective offers a unique opportunity or in-depth analysis of surgical performance, and provides bjective feedback that can then be used for appraisal and ssessment. The use of head-mounted cameras is not new, but the quipment used previously tended to be rather cumbersome nd expensive.2 Modern small digital video recorders can ow be incorporated into spectacle frames with increased efinition. We have used the Sunnycam® (Nemesis GB Ltd, orcester, UK) high definition (HD) video recording sunlasses (with the patient’s consent) to record operations for eaching and training purposes (Fig. 1). The sunglasses are nexpensive, lightweight, and cable-free during use. An addiional benefit is that the clear wraparound lenses also protect he eyes. The rechargeable battery and SD (secure digital) emory card are incorporated into the arms of the glasses, nd the camera is on the bridge of the nose. We have used he glasses to record procedures in theatre, as well as in utpatients.3 The camera, which can autofocus and accomodate for any changes in light levels, is capable of recording