Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 13, 2026
Mixed Reality Assisted Radical Endoscopic Thyroidectomy
Published on: January 31, 2025
Augmented reality and 3D visualization integrated with magnetic-assisted robotic procedures: first clinical cases
Mélissa V Wills1, Julio Jimenez2, Marcelo Yañez2
1Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western University, Cleveland, OH, USA. willsm@ccf.org.
Background:
Current minimally invasive surgery techniques face persistent challenges: limited depth perception, assistant-dependent retraction, and added invasiveness from multiple ports. We present the first clinical experience combining three novel technologies: Magnetic-Assisted Robotic Surgery (MARS), 3D visualization, and augmented reality (AR).
Methods:
This IRB-approved retrospective review included 10 patients who underwent reduced-port laparoscopic surgery using the MARS system with Meta Quest 3 AR headset and EinsteinVision 3D camera in October 2024. Procedures included cholecystectomy (n = 4), oophorectomies (n = 2), Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (n = 2), combined cholecystectomy with sleeve gastrectomy (n = 1), and hiatal hernia repair (n = 1).
Results:
Median operative time was 108 min (range: 44-218 min). Each procedure required at least one fewer port than traditional approaches. No complications occurred, and there were no readmissions or protocol deviations within 30 days. Surgeons reported greatly improved visualization compared with standard laparoscopy, and no device malfunctions were encountered.
Conclusion:
Integrating MARS, 3D visualization, and AR proved feasible and safe across multiple surgical specialties. This platform enhanced visualization and reduced invasiveness while maintaining efficiency and safety.
