Augmented Reality in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery: What It Is, How Far It’s Come, and the Limitations Impacting Further Adoption

• DOI: 10.1097/01.gox.0000992472.50864.4f
• Publication Date: 2023-10-18T08:17:19Z
• Authors: Lucille Cheng; Sayna Matinrazm; Nicolás Kass; Elizabeth Moroni; Lucas Dvoracek; Edward Andrews; Stephen Canton; Jesse Goldstein; Mario Solari
• Keywords: Modalities; Surgical Planning

BACKGROUND: Augmented reality (AR) is the process of visually overlaying digital information on top physical world and can include interactions between display world. Within field plastic reconstructive surgery (PRS), AR utilize patient imaging to aid preoperative surgical planning, intraoperative image guidance, as well resident education. Previous reviews in PRS have been limited not addressing underlying technological shortcomings nor fully evaluating physician usability limitations. In this review, we discuss both current uses limitations that need be addressed development moves forward. METHODS: A review relevant literature was conducted. Electronic databases were screened using keywords including "augmented reality," "mixed "plastic surgery." Studies individually assessed for quality heuristics. RESULTS: total 90 studies reviewed. Several used phrase reality" interchangeably with other guidance modalities, especially types extended reality, such mixed (MR) or virtual (VR). Of applied device studies, primary usage fell into one three categories: wide range devices within umbrella utilized, most commonly citing HoloLens (Microsoft LLC, Redmond, Wash.). Across several subspecialties, has demonstrated practicality success planning education but minimal due specific issues usability. The cited technical hampering widespread adoption software difficulties distinguishing soft tissue streamline artificial marker registration. Meanwhile, included vision, insufficient battery life dim viewing conditions. CONCLUSION: utility augmented an exciting nascent study. While there many initial attempts develop technology, significant remain constrain AR's ability autonomous system. Promoting engineering-physician partnerships will allow prioritization key critical operating room.