[Application and utilization of virtual and augmented reality in surgical specialties-an expert Delphi consensus]

Digitalization in healthcare is progressing only slowly in Germany. To counter this trend, four different consensus groups came together as part of the Digital Health Summit in Brandenburg. The aim was to assess the current situation and to formulate demands directed at policymakers and the scientific community in order to advance digitalization.

This paper presents the results of the experts' Delphi process on extended reality (XR) in surgical specialties.

As part of the Digital Health Summit Brandenburg 2024, a multistage expert consensus process was conducted with physicians and researchers. Following an initial literature review, statements on the topics of definition, status quo, translation, and utopia were developed and evaluated within a Delphi process.

A total of 31 statements were developed across five categories, the majority of which were endorsed with very strong (41%) or strong (56%) consensus. Participants currently see XR being used primarily in education and training and in surgical planning. For clinical translation, interdisciplinary collaboration as well as the provision of resources and guidelines for clinical integration were key priorities. With regard to optimal use of the technologies, interdisciplinary development as well as mandatory provision and promotion of the technologies were cited.

XR applications have already been adopted in certain areas of medicine and have demonstrated benefit in specific domains. However, the current framework conditions for developers and healthcare providers are insufficient for widespread implementation in routine clinical practice. In addition to financial and methodological support, there is a particular need to streamline regulatory barriers.