How VR and AR Are Used in Surgery: 12 Examples

Overview

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), first popularized by the gaming industry, have made their way into healthcare. Now, VR and AR tools can display interactive 2D and 3D images of physical procedures or anatomy, helping surgeons to maximize efficiency and minimize risk in the operating room. WHAT IS VR AND AR SURGERY? Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are simulated imaging tools used in surgery. Using 2D and 3D image rendering from VR/AR tools, surgeons can mimic real surgical procedures and anatomy, boosting preparedness and efficiency in the operating room. Benefits of VR and AR in Surgery VR AND AR SURGERY BENEFITS Access to 3D anatomical images and models. Access to real-time medical references and information. Accelerates surgical operation prep times. Provides low-risk surgical testing environments. Reduces surgical equipment and staff costs. With VR and AR in surgery, surgeons have pre-operation access to 3D renderings of hearts, eyes, knee joints and lots else. In some cases, surgeons even use AR-enabled haptic feedback gloves to mimic the buzzing of saws and drills. All of these resources help to prep for operations, study realistic models of patients and access real-time anatomical references and information. Besides being a boon to surgical preparation, these extended reality (XR) tools also help hospitals save time and money. The ability to study 3D scans before an operation helps surgeons thoroughly prep for each case and implement proactive, time-saving procedures. Another plus: storing images and patient data on one AR/VR platform reduces the need for expensive screens and unnecessary staff. 12 Companies Using VR in Surgery 1. VICARIOUS SURGICAL Vicarious Surgical View Profile We are hiring Location: Waltham, Massachusetts Vicarious Surgical’s robotic system, controlled by a VR headset, is designed to allow freedom of movement and precision in minimally invasive surgeries. The surgical