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Pedicle Screw Placement Using an Augmented Reality Head-Mounted Display in a Porcine Model
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Augmented, virtual and mixed reality in spinal surgery: A real-world experience
Daisuke Sakai1, Kieran Joyce2,3, Maki Sugimoto4
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Surgical Science, Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Kanagawa, Japan.
Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery (Hong Kong)
|September 10, 2020
Summary
Augmented, virtual, or mixed reality (AR, VR, MR) show promise in spinal surgery for enhanced precision. These technologies may improve outcomes and reduce costs, but further validation is needed for broader adoption.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Medical Technology
- Surgical Innovation
Background:
- Augmented, virtual, and mixed reality (AR, VR, MR) are emerging technologies with potential applications in medicine.
- Spinal surgery presents unique challenges requiring high precision and accuracy, making it a candidate for advanced visualization tools.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role and implementation challenges of AR, VR, and MR in spinal surgery.
- To assess the technical efficacy and cost-effectiveness of these immersive technologies for surgical guidance.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current studies on AR, VR, and MR in spinal surgery.
- Analysis of technical aspects, efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness of these technologies.
Main Results:
- Current research primarily focuses on AR-guided pedicle screw placement.
- AR, VR, and MR technologies offer potential for improved accuracy in complex, minimally invasive spinal procedures.
- Cost-effectiveness may be achieved through reduced surgical times and complications.
Conclusions:
- AR, VR, and MR technologies hold significant promise for enhancing precision and accuracy in spinal surgery.
- Widespread adoption hinges on demonstrating cost-effectiveness and validating safety and efficacy across a broader range of procedures.
- Further research is needed to fully integrate these advanced visualization tools into routine surgical practice.

