Virtual Reality (VR) / Augmented Reality (AR)

Virtual Reality (VR) / Augmented Reality (AR)

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are technologies that are being increasingly used in spine surgery.

VR involves creating a computer-generated simulation of a real-life environment. A person can use special electronic equipment to interact with this artificial simulation. Oftentimes your surgeon may import your radiographic spinal imaging (i.e. X-Ray, CT scans, and MRI scans) into this VR platform, to create a personalized surgical approach. A surgeon may use AR before and during the operation to create a real-time surgical approach. AR is more often used in surgery, although VR systems are also becoming more prevalent in surgical planning and training. Both can be used to create 3D models of the spine for patient and resident education, and to provide real-time guidance and feedback to surgeons during surgery.