Apple Vision Pro as the Intended Primary Intraoperative Visualization Platform for Complete Cataract Surgery: A...

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Surgical Technology
• Human-Computer Interaction

Background:

• Cataract surgery traditionally relies on direct visualization through surgical microscopes.
• Emerging technologies offer potential for enhanced intraoperative visualization and surgeon experience.
• Apple Vision Pro (AVP) presents a novel head-mounted stereoscopic display for potential surgical applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility of using Apple Vision Pro as the primary intraoperative visualization platform in cataract surgery.
• To assess early safety observations and procedural outcomes associated with AVP use.
• To gather preliminary data on surgeon workload and operating room staff experience.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, single-center, single-arm feasibility study.
• Integration of Apple Vision Pro with a ZEISS ARTEVO 850 3D digital surgical microscope.
• Forty-five patients undergoing cataract surgery were enrolled, with AVP as the primary visualization, and conventional optics/monitor as backup.

Main Results:

• 97.8% (44/45) of procedures were completed using Apple Vision Pro without device-related conversion.
• One conversion occurred due to transient image interruption; no patient harm resulted.
• No device-related intraoperative complications were observed; surgeons reported low workload and minimal workflow disruption.

Conclusions:

• Apple Vision Pro demonstrated feasibility as a primary visualization pathway in a specialized, backup-supported cataract surgery environment.
• Preliminary findings suggest potential for head-mounted stereoscopic visualization in surgery.
• Further controlled evaluations are warranted to establish safety, efficacy, and broader applicability.