[Application of AR/VR Technologies in Neurosurgery]

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Medical Technology
• Surgical Navigation

Background:

• Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are rapidly advancing technologies with broad applications.
• These immersive technologies are increasingly integrated into the medical field, particularly neurosurgery.
• Current applications leverage various devices for surgical assistance and training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the current state and potential of AR and VR in neurosurgery.
• To identify the specific devices and applications of AR/VR in neurosurgical procedures.
• To assess the benefits and limitations of integrating AR/VR into neurosurgical practice.

Main Methods:

• Review of current AR and VR technologies utilized in neurosurgery.
• Analysis of applications including microsurgery integration, surgical navigation, and training tools.
• Identification of devices such as tablet devices, smart glasses, and 3D printers.

Main Results:

• Microsurgery integration, as an extension of surgical navigation, represents a prevalent AR application.
• Tablet devices, smart glasses, and 3D printers are employed for surgical assistance and educational purposes.
• Existing challenges include imaging limitations, registration errors, brain shift, high costs, and resource constraints.

Conclusions:

• AR and VR technologies show promise for enhancing the accuracy and safety of neurosurgical interventions.
• Continued development is needed to overcome current technical and logistical hurdles.
• These technologies are expected to play a crucial role in the future of neurosurgery.