RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

AI-Based Real-Time Detection of Surgical Smoke Using Endoscopic Data

This study aims to develop a clever computer system that can automatically detect surgical smoke during keyhole (laparoscopic) surgery. When certain surgical tools are used, smoke can be created, which needs to be safely removed to keep the operating area clear for surgeons and maintain good air quality for everyone in the room. In this pilot study, researchers are gathering information from operations on women who are already having keyhole surgery where smoke is expected to be produced and a special smoke-clearing device is being used. The information collected will help 'teach' a computer to recognise surgical smoke in real-time. This could eventually lead to safer and more efficient surgical environments.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

University Hospital Tuebingen

Enrolment target

Start

21 Feb 2024

Estimated completion

01 Aug 2026

Detection of Surgical Smoke Gas Using AI

What is this study about?

This study is about making surgery even safer and more efficient. During certain types of operations, especially keyhole surgery, surgical tools can create a small amount of smoke. While there are systems in place to remove this smoke, researchers want to see if a computer can be trained to automatically spot it.

Imagine a clever computer 'brain' watching the surgery through the camera. The goal is for this computer to learn to recognise when surgical smoke appears during an operation. To do this, the study will collect video information from current operations on women who are already having keyhole surgery where smoke is likely to be produced. A special machine designed to clear smoke, called an S-Pilot, will already be in use.

The information gathered will help 'teach' the computer system to detect smoke very accurately. If successful, this could mean that in the future, computer systems could help make sure surgical smoke is removed quickly and effectively, leading to clearer views for surgeons and better air quality in the operating room for both patients and the medical team.

Key takeaways

The study aims to create a computer system to detect surgical smoke.
It uses data from standard keyhole surgeries in women.
It does not change your planned surgery or treatment.
Participation helps make surgeries safer in the future.
There are no direct medical benefits or extra risks to you.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for women who are at least 18 years old. You would be considered if you are already scheduled to have keyhole surgery that involves using special electrical tools (called HF surgery) which are known to create surgical smoke. Importantly, your surgery must also be using a specific smoke-clearing device called the Karl Storz S-Pilot.

Before taking part, you would need to understand what the study is about and agree in writing to participate. The study team needs to be confident that you can follow any instructions given.

You would not be able to join if you are not able to understand the study, or if you cannot give your permission. Also, if the specific smoke-clearing device (S-Pilot) cannot be used during your surgery for any reason, then you would not be eligible.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you a woman aged 18 or older?
Are you scheduled for keyhole surgery that uses special electrical tools?
Will a 'Karl Storz S-Pilot' smoke-clearing system be used during your surgery?
Are you able to understand the study and provide your written agreement to take part?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, you won't need to do anything extra or different from what's already planned for your surgery. The study involves collecting data, like video images, during your existing keyhole surgery. You won't be given any new medications or treatments as part of the study. There are no additional visits, assessments, or follow-up appointments required. Your doctor and the surgical team will carry out your operation as planned, and the study will simply observe and record information from it. The total duration of your involvement will just be the time of your surgery itself.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study does not involve any additional risks to your health beyond those already associated with your planned surgery, as the study only observes and collects data. There are no direct medical benefits to you from participating, as the study aims to improve future surgical techniques rather than treat your current condition. However, by taking part, you would be contributing valuable information that could help make keyhole surgery safer and more efficient for many patients in the future. Remember, your participation is completely voluntary, and you have the right to withdraw at any time without affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Department of Women's Health, University Hospital
Verified postcode
Tübingen, Germany· Recruiting

Common questions

What is this study trying to achieve?

It's trying to teach a computer to automatically spot surgical smoke during keyhole surgery to help keep the operating room clear and safe.

Will taking part in this study change my surgery?

No, your surgery will happen exactly as planned. The study just collects information during your operation.

Do I need to do anything special if I join?

No, you don't need to do anything extra. There are no additional appointments or treatments.

Will I get any benefits from joining the study?

There are no direct personal medical benefits. You would be helping improve future surgical safety for others.

Who can join this study?

Women aged 18 or over who are having specific keyhole surgery where a special smoke-clearing device (S-Pilot) is used.

How to find out more

Prof. Dr. Bernhard Krämer

bernhard.kraemer@med.uni-tuebingen.de +497071 2982211 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.