Augmented reality has been utilized to enhance the precision of surgical procedures.

Engineers at the Moscow Technical University of Communications and Informatics (RTU MIREA) are developing augmented reality (AR) technology for medical procedures. This software will assist doctors in navigating the human anatomical system and guide them during surgical operations. A specialized application for AR glasses will project crucial information directly onto the lenses, enhancing visibility of tissue layers, blood vessels, and nerves. This is particularly beneficial for complex surgeries. Medical students will have the opportunity to practice in a safe environment, boosting their confidence and skills. Researchers have already created a prototype of the device.

2024-12-18 10:01:43https://naked-science.ru/article/column/dopolnennuyu-realnost-isp

AR technology is already being utilized in various fields of medicine. For instance, in neurosurgery, the use of AR has reduced navigation errors by 30 percent, enhancing the safety of operations. In cardiovascular surgery, the accuracy of suturing has improved, and operation times have decreased by 15 percent, which has led to a reduction in postoperative complications. In orthopedics, AR has contributed to a 20 percent decrease in the number of revision surgeries for joint replacements. Laparoscopic surgery has become 10 percent more precise and faster.

Developers from RTU MIREA have created a prototype device based on the Arduino Nano microcontroller. “Although the concept is currently too large for integration into glasses, it allows for the development of software with a database that will assist doctors in navigating human anatomy,” said Yegor Chistyakov, assistant at the Department of Radioelectronic Systems and Complexes at the Institute of Radioelectronics and Informatics at RTU MIREA. “The head-mounted device creates transparent, floating images within the surgeon's field of view, merging the patient's anatomical images with the real surgery.”

Surgeons will be able to move freely while receiving holographic images of internal structures from various angles. The system supports voice commands and gestures to control images and data, including the projection of vital signs.

The project was presented at the VIII Scientific and Practical Conference “RADIOINFOCOM — 2024.”

Augmented reality is becoming a key tool for enhancing the accuracy of surgical interventions, optimizing medical training, and improving treatment outcomes. AR enhances the visualization of anatomical structures, reduces operation times, and minimizes trauma for patients. Despite current challenges, such as the need for high-quality equipment, the potential of AR is evident. Further advancements in these technologies are expected in the future, leading to improved medical care.

This work is being carried out as part of the strategic academic leadership program “Priority 2030.”