Holographic Surgical Planning

Holographic surgical planning is an emerging medical innovation that uses mixed reality and holographic technology to create three-dimensional models from data collected from computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Traditionally, surgeons rely on two-dimensional scans, such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans, to visualize the human anatomy and identify areas that require surgical treatment. Although these two-dimensional scans provide quick documentation for diagnosis and treatment planning, they cannot capture depth or volume like three-dimensional scans. Two-dimensional scans can’t determine the exact locations of defects. Holographic surgical planning resolves this issue, as it transforms medical imaging data into interactive, three-dimensional models that can be viewed in live action through augmented reality headsets. 

A great advantage of holographic surgical planning is that it is straightforward to use, requiring little to almost no training. The orthopedic surgeons at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center had positive reviews while using the three-dimensional hologram system. When they were performing the shoulder replacement surgery, they realized that they were able to be precise in locating the specific areas that were needed for treatment. Surgeons were able to put the holographic image right next to the patient’s shoulder as they position implants during surgery. This technology helps to provide a personalized surgery for each patient’s unique anatomy. They also noted that the system was very easy to operate and required little technical training. 

This surgical tool is a preoperative preparation tool that will revolutionize surgery, as it allows surgeons and patients to view the planned operation. This allows for a better understanding of the treatment. As holographic surgical planning is being used more by medical institutions globally, benefits will include reduced operating times and better patient outcomes. Challenges like high costs and higher image accuracy remain. Despite these obstacles, holographic surgical planning remains a promising tool for surgeons to achieve higher precision and personalization in surgeries. 

Written by Anna Zheng at Incisionary

References

Health System News Hovering Holograms – A Very Real, New Operating Room Tool. (2022). Oha.com. https://www.oha.com/news/hovering-holograms-%E2%80%93-a-very-real-new-operating-room-tool

Muehlhauser, G. (2022, December 15). 2D Vs. 3D X-ray Scanning. North Star Imaging. https://4nsi.com/2d-vs-3d-x-ray-scanning/

The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. (2021). Osu.edu. https://wexnermedical.osu.edu/departments/innovations/orthopedics/3d-holograms