Introduction to Virtual Reality in Surgery
Virtual reality (VR) technology is revolutionizing the sphere of surgery, particularly in neurosurgery. This progressive technology allows surgeons to plan and perform surgeries with greater accuracy and safety. By making a three-dimensional image of the patient’s anatomy, surgeons can higher understand the complexities of the procedure and avoid critical areas.
How VR Works in Surgery
The three-dimensional aspect of the imagery eases surgeons’ planning and improves the accuracy of the surgery. According to Professor and Chair of Neurosurgery, Dr. Steinberg, "We can plan out how we are able to approach a tumor and avoid critical areas just like the motor cortex or the sensory areas." This technology enables surgeons to visualise the patient’s anatomy in a way that was previously unattainable. Before the arrival of VR, surgeons needed to depend on their mental reconstructions of the patient’s anatomy, which may lead to errors and complications.
Benefits of VR in Surgery
One of the numerous advantages of VR in surgery is its ability to disclose critical details that might not be visible through conventional imaging. For example, within the case of a patient named Rodoni, an artery was attached to the highest of the aneurysm, which couldn’t be seen on conventional imaging. Dr. Steinberg noted that if he had not known concerning the artery, it might have been a "real disaster." The use of VR technology allowed Dr. Steinberg to avoid this critical area and perform the surgery safely.
Patient Education and Reassurance
VR technology just isn’t only helpful for surgeons but in addition for patients. Malie Collins, MS, senior program lead for the VR program, uses a mobile unit to indicate patients their anatomy in three dimensions. This helps patients understand their condition and the procedure they’ll undergo. Collins noted that having the ability to see the issue in three dimensions reassures patients, especially young patients or those that don’t understand English well.
Advancements and Future Developments
Currently, Stanford Medicine doctors are using VR technology for the brain and spinal cord because these organs are stable and lend themselves to imagery. However, Collins said that the technology may soon be available for the remaining of the body. The use of VR technology in surgery continues to be in its early stages, nevertheless it has the potential to revolutionize the sphere and improve patient outcomes.
Enhanced Surgical Precision
Surgeons typically use video feeds while operating, but the brand new VR technology adds a three-dimensional view that will be superimposed on the real-time video. Dr. Steinberg noted that this technology provides "much, far more detail" than traditional video feeds. For example, during Rodoni’s surgery, Dr. Steinberg was in a position to match the 3-D rendering of her anatomy with the surgical microscopic view, which just isn’t possible with other technologies.
Patient Satisfaction and Choice
The use of VR technology has also influenced patient alternative. Some patients have chosen Stanford over other nearby hospitals solely due to VR technology. Dr. Veeravagu noted that the software helps patients understand what they’re about to undergo, and seeing it on the screen in 3-D helps put their minds relaxed. Rodoni, who underwent her third brain surgery, felt more calm and reassured knowing that Dr. Steinberg would find a way to see the identical thing she saw, and he would not run into any surprises.
Conclusion
The use of virtual reality technology in surgery is a major advancement in the sphere of neurosurgery. By providing a three-dimensional image of the patient’s anatomy, surgeons can plan and perform surgeries with greater accuracy and safety. The technology also advantages patients by educating and reassuring them about their condition and the procedure they’ll undergo. As the technology continues to develop, it has the potential to enhance patient outcomes and revolutionize the sphere of surgery.
