Introduction to Augmented Reality Knee Replacement
When it involves knee alternative surgery, orthopedic surgeons now have a brand new tool for the operating room: augmented reality knee alternative. This technology enables a surgeon to view essential data using special smart glasses or a helmet-based visor while maintaining their view of the surgical site. In that way, augmented reality differs from virtual reality.
How Augmented Reality Works
"Think of a fighter pilot in a jet that has a visor over their eyes that is displaying electronic data that’s overlaid over what they’re seeing in the actual world," explains Dr. Michael Taunton, a Mayo Clinic orthopedic surgeon. "So don’t confuse this with virtual reality that your kids have at home, that they are playing video games with their eyes covered." Augmented reality technology superimposes digital content, including data and 3D images, onto the user’s view. Surgeons use this information to be precise and receive real-time feedback when removing bone and cartilage, and placing a knee implant.
Advancements in Knee Replacement Surgery
Dr. Taunton explains augmented reality is a brand new advancement beyond computer-assisted knee alternative. "We’ve had computer-assisted surgery for some time where we take data from the patient’s own leg and enter that right into a computer, and have it display a few of this information to assist us understand how best to remove the correct quantity of bone in the precise angle to make the knee alternative fit higher, and have higher alignment of the limb after surgery," says Dr. Taunton. "The problem with a few of those computer-assisted programs is that there’s a screen or computer that we’re across the room. So we’re having to take our eyes off the patient during surgery."
Implementation and Research
The first augmented reality knee alternative at Mayo Clinic was performed in fall of 2021, and the technology will not be yet widely available. Research is ongoing to review whether augmented reality can reduce the length of surgery and improve patient outcomes. On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Taunton discusses the benefits of using augmented reality for knee alternative surgery.
Learning More
To learn more about augmented reality knee alternative surgery, you may watch Dr. Taunton discuss the subject or read the total transcript. For more information and all of your COVID-19 coverage, go to the Mayo Clinic News Network and mayoclinic.org.
Related Topics
For more information on related topics, you may explore articles on orthopedic surgery, knee alternative, and the most recent advancements in medical technology.
Conclusion
Augmented reality knee alternative surgery is a brand new and exciting development in the sphere of orthopedic surgery. With its ability to offer real-time feedback and improve precision, it has the potential to enhance patient outcomes and reduce the length of surgery. As research continues to review the effectiveness of this technology, it might turn out to be a helpful tool for surgeons and patients alike.
