3 Applications of Augmented Reality in surgery

Surgeons can use augmented reality technology to mimic actual surgical procedures and the patient’s specific anatomy, improving preoperative planning and surgical visualization.

Augmented reality was used to give surgeons information about the position of internal organs and the adjustments needed for needle biopsy.

AR allows the surgeon to see 3D objects superimposed on the real world.

When was the first application of augmented reality in surgery?

In 2020 in the United States, during a spinal fusion surgery (spondylodiscitis), augmented reality helped a group of surgeons at the Johns Hopkins Hospital visualize the patient’s 3D vertebral anatomy during surgery, looking directly at the patient instead of a remote monitor.

It was like surgeons had X-ray vision.

3 Applications of Augmented Reality in Surgery

1. Surgical planning

2. Intraoperative guidance

3. Surgical education

01. Surgical planning

Augmented reality can create detailed 3D models of a patient's anatomy before surgery, allowing surgeons to plan the procedure and identify potential risks or complications.

This can improve the precision and accuracy of the surgery, and reduce the need for multiple procedures.

02. Intraoperative Guidance

Augmented reality can also be used during surgery to provide real-time guidance and information to the surgeon. This can include superimposing images of the patient's anatomy over the surgical field, or providing real-time feedback on the progress of the surgery.

AR can help surgeons make better-informed decisions and improve the outcomes of the procedure.

7D Surgical is an imaging system in the operating room for perioperative exploration of the spine and skull (instead of the fluoroscope), it uses visible light to create a 3D image in a few seconds (in Flash).

This reduces operating time and eliminates the risk of exposure to radiological radiation (eliminates the risk of exposure to the surgeon, patient, and operating room personnel).

03. Surgical Education

Augmented reality can enhance the learning experience for medical students, allowing them to interact with detailed models of human anatomy and simulate surgical procedures.

AR can improve the realism and effectiveness of medical education and training, and prepare students for real-world surgical situations.

AR technology is still in its early stages. It's a pillar of the extended reality (XR) industry. As the technology matures, new possibilities to apply AR will emerge, leading to new ways to assist, guide, and optimize surgery and surgical education.