Augmented Reality in Neurosurgery

Abstract

Augmented Reality (AR) involves superimposing digital content onto the real environment. AR has evolved into a viable tool in neurosurgery, enhancing intraoperative navigation, medical education and surgical training by integrating anatomical data with the real world. Neurosurgical AR relies on several key techniques to be successful, which includes image segmentation, model rendering, AR projection, and image-to-patient registration. For each of these technical components, different solutions exist, with each having their own advantages and limitations. Intraoperative AR applications cover diverse neurosurgical disciplines including vascular, oncological, spinal, and functional surgeries. Preliminary studies indicate that AR may improve the understanding of complex anatomical structures and offer sufficient accuracy for use as a navigational tool. Additionally, AR shows promise in enhancing surgical training and patient education through interactive 3D models, aiding in the comprehension of intricate anatomical details. Despite its potential, the widespread adoption of AR in clinical settings depends on overcoming technical limitations and validating its clinical efficacy.