Augmented Reality’s Transformation of the O.R.

Orthopedics will see a significant transformation of the operating room, moving from a primarily analog and radiologically based set of imaging modalities to compelling new technologies like augmented reality (AR) that take advantage of rapidly developing computer-generated environments. AR turns a patient’s imaging data into a 3-dimensional hologram that is superimposed onto the patient through an optical headset. The technology allows the surgeon to focus directly on the patient’s anatomy without looking at a separate monitor. Entrepreneur and neurointerventional radiologist Wendell Gibby, M.D., has developed multiple orthopedic imaging solutions since founding his company Novarad in 1988. Dr. Gibby says AR provides a robot’s precision, the stethoscope’s portability and the versatility of human-powered intelligence.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the benefits and applications of AR in orthopedics today
• Learn how AR integrates with other technologies inside and outside of the O.R.
• Gain insight into how AR will change the future of orthopedic surgery