Virtual Reality in Neurosurgery

The article talks about the applications of augmented reality, known as AR, and virtual reality, known as VR, in neurosurgery beyond the traditional surgical planning. By systematically using various databases from 1989- 2021, the study identifies the numerous uses of AR/VR in areas such as neuronavigation, training, pain management, rehabilitation, and robotic surgery. The technologies are beneficial in-patient consent process and enhancing patient comfort during procedures.

As for planning, AR and VR have demonstrated their potential in the field of neurosurgical applications other than planning. They increase neuronavigation by offering better possibility of 3D models and real-time integration of MRI, which results in better precision and success of the operations. The use of VR simulations is also beneficial during training because it provides safe space to practice while, on the other hand, AR is useful in the type of learning. In pain management, VR offers complementary therapies for SCP, and in rehabilitation, it offers support for telerahabilitation and cognitive testing. The versatility of VR can also be seen in the use of incorporating it in consent-taking and robotic neurosurgical procedures. Some of the limitations include; steep learning curve, technical issues and the need to do more research on how to harness this technology to its optimum.

This review identified 487 articles on PubMed, 1097 on PMC, and 275 from the Web of Science Core Collection. Therefore, a total of 95 articles were included to illustrate the application of VR/AR in different neurosurgical scenarios. It increases the precision of neuronavigation, contribute to neurosurgeon’s education, has opportunities for new approaches to pain control, and provides benefits in the area of patient’s physical therapy. They also indicate hope in robotic neurosurgery and enhancing the means of explaining procedures and potential consequences to patients. Thus, the potential uses of VR and AR in neurosurgical processes should be explored despite the possible technical and implementation-related issues.

Author: Neer Patel

Reference: https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/19/3/1719

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. Virtual Reality in Neurosurgery: Beyond Neurosurgical Planning. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022;19(3):1719. doi:10.3390/ijerph19031719. Accessed July 31, 2024.