Introduction
There have been tremendous developments in technology with new idea, concept, and training tools and resources being introduced into the market each day. One such revolutionary technology is Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Mixed Reality (MR) which is used in almost every industry and healthcare is no exception. Surgical training models are now on VR platforms where surgeons have employed mixed reality and augmented reality to aid with complex procedures and one of these procedures is the navigated total hip replacement.
Total hip replacement also known as total hip arthroplasty is a procedure suggested to individuals experiencing excruciating hip joint pain due to various reasons. Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, traumatic arthritis, hip fracture, avascular necrosis are a few conditions that could result in requiring a total hip replacement.
Surgical training using Mixed Reality
The technological developments have led to the usage of mixed reality (MR) technology, which has special advantages and has unique benefits, and has been used in surgical training to increase the success rate of complex hip replacements.
Mixed reality combines the real world with virtual elements where real and digital objects coexist and communicate in real time. It combines the best elements of Virtual Reality (VR) with Augmented Reality (AR) for improved visualization, comprehension, and decision-making.
Mixed reality offers surgeons a high level of precision and understanding of the patient’s anatomy. It is accomplished by fusing real-time intraoperative vision with preoperative imaging data, such as CT scans and x-rays. By donning MR headsets or utilizing MR-assisted surgical equipment surgeons can now view a 3D model of the patient’s hip joint superimposed over their physical anatomy. This enables a more precise evaluation of the hip joint’s alignment and condition.
Preoperative planning is of utmost importance for better outcomes. One of the main advantages of mixed reality in surgical training is that even before making an incision on the patient surgeons can digitally mimic the procedure assuring a case-by-case approach. Preoperative planning helps in minimizing complications, reducing surgery time, and improving results.
The MR navigation system serves as a guide during surgical training, offering real-time input and ensuring that the surgeon precisely follows the established surgical plan. It helps to achieve ideal leg length, hip joint stability, and implant location. When performing THR procedures, this level of accuracy is very important because even a small deviation can greatly impact the patient’s postoperative function and quality of life.
Team collaboration
Mixed Reality helps in easy communication between surgeons, nurses, and other members of the team. The entire medical team benefits from this as they can have shared visualizations in handling the medical equipment and medical device, and provide a more unified and effective surgical workflow by facilitating a greater knowledge of the procedure.
The use of MR technology improves patient participation and education as well. Patients can better understand their condition and the suggested treatment plan including but not limited to the surgical procedure, risks and complications, and anticipated outcomes. They can all be more easily and intuitively explained by surgeons using MR-based presentations.
Postoperative instructions
VR training tools also help patients during the postoperative period where they can understand postoperative wound care, dressing changes, exercises, and other instructions.
Conclusion
Mixed reality has the power to redefine surgical precision, improve patient outcomes, and advance the field of orthopedics as a whole. ARVR-Sol is the leading AR, VR, and MR solution provider that meets the demands of the healthcare industry in surgical simulation training for comprehensive preoperative planning and better surgical outcomes.
Future medical practices are expected to use Mixed Reality as it continues to develop technologically and as more research and clinical trials are undertaken. Its use extends beyond THR to other orthopedic procedures, improving patient care all around and ushering in a new era of medical innovation.