Transforming Neurosurgery with Augmented Reality
Chih‐Wei Huang, Chi‐Ruei Li, Mao‐Shih Lin, Chiu-Chun Chen, Hsi‐Kai Tsou · IntechOpen eBooks · 2025
Augmented reality (AR) technology is revolutionising neurosurgery, with significant applications in intraoperative navigation, patient education, and medical training. AR enables real-time three-dimensional (3D) image projection into the surgical field, allowing surgeons to localise lesions precisely and avoid critical structures. This reduces intraoperative errors and enhances surgical safety. AR also offers intuitive 3D models that help patients understand disease mechanisms and surgical plans, thereby improving patient education, communication, and engagement. In medical training, AR simulations provide safe and interactive environments for medical students and residents to practice procedures, shortening their learning curve and improving their surgical skills. Despite these advancements, AR in neurosurgery still faces challenges such as image registration errors, hardware compatibility issues, and intraoperative latency. The integration of emerging technologies—such as artificial intelligence, 5G networks, and mixed reality—is expected to overcome these challenges and ensure more accurate and efficient AR systems. As these innovations progress, the role of AR in neurosurgery will expand. This will lead to safer, more precise surgical procedures and transform the landscape of surgical visualisation and education.