Doctors Use Augmented Reality For Spinal Surgery

Two Brazilian surgeons adapted the Microsoft HoloLens to allow them to use augmented reality to assist in spinal surgery. The surgeon, wearing a Hololens headset, was able to see a 3D CT scan of the patient’s spine during the surgery, according to Next Reality. The images helped the surgeon with the precise placement of screws used to correct a spinal deformity in the procedure. The technology that allows surgeons to see CT scans in the operating room is very expensive and not readily available. The Microsoft HoloLens’ $3,000 price tag provides a much cheaper alternative. The doctors will next be authoring a study comparing augmented reality with imaging other technology.