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Immersive spatial computing in neurosurgery
W S Bolton1,2, I D Kamaly-Asl3, R K Mathew1,2
1Department of Neurosurgery, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK.
British Journal of Neurosurgery
|May 26, 2026
Summary
Immersive spatial computing, including virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR), shows promise in neurosurgery training and planning. While technically feasible, patient outcome improvements require further research and integration.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Medical Technology
- Spatial Computing
Background:
- Immersive spatial computing technologies like VR, AR, and MR are increasingly used in neurosurgery.
- These technologies span the entire neurosurgical pathway, from training to recovery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the evolution and current role of VR, AR, and MR in cranial and spinal neurosurgery.
- To review their integration with neuronavigation and applications in training, planning, guidance, and recovery.
Main Methods:
- A narrative review of contemporary neurosurgical literature was conducted.
- Evidence on VR, AR, and MR applications, technical principles, evidence quality, and barriers was compiled.
Main Results:
- VR is established for training and planning, showing improved understanding and potential skill transfer.
- AR/MR offer intraoperative visualization, demonstrating feasibility and accuracy, especially in spinal surgery.
- Evidence primarily supports technical feasibility, with limited data on patient-level outcomes; limitations include design heterogeneity and adoption barriers.
Conclusions:
- Spatial computing is becoming integral to neurosurgery's computer ecosystem.
- Future impact hinges on integration with neuronavigation, robotics, AI, and addressing cultural/workflow challenges.
