Using a Smartphone as an Exoscope Where an Operating Microscope is not Available

Abstract

Objective: Neurosurgical operating rooms are equipped with microscopes in order to provide a good standard of care. Nevertheless, in developing countries, microscopes are not always available. During a short period in a western Africa hospital, we adapted our smartphones as a valid alternative to the microscope.

Methods: Using a shaped tin can, a smartphone cover, and a rod fixed to the bed, we could make a support for a smartphone creating a simple "homemade" exoscope, which allowed us to have magnification and light in the surgical field.

Results: Among others, we performed 5 surgical interventions of both spinal and brain surgery using our smartphone as a magnifier. This allowed us to overcome the absence of a better magnification system.

Conclusions: This simple "smartphone-based exoscope" allows surgeons to get an adequate magnification during surgery when microscopes or magnification goggles are not available. It can be a useful solution in developing countries where often nothing better is available.

Keywords: Exoscope; Operating microscope; Smartphone.