Realizing the Potential of Computer-Assisted Surgery by Embedding Digital Twin Technology

The value of virtual world and digital phenotyping has been demonstrated in several fields, and their applications in the field of surgery are worthy of attention and exploration. This viewpoint describes the necessity and approach to understanding the deeper potential of computer-assisted surgery through interaction and symbiosis between virtual and real spaces. We propose to embed digital twin technology into all aspects of computer-assisted surgery rather than just the surgical object and further apply it to the whole process from patient treatment to recovery. A more personalized, precise, and predictable surgery is our vision.