OrthoIndy has announced a monumental step forward in surgical innovation by introducing augmented reality (AR) into surgical procedures. Distinguished spine surgeon Dr. Gregory Poulter recently performed Indiana’s first-ever surgery utilizing Surgical Theater’s cutting-edge eXperiential Reality (XR) technology. The procedure, a pioneering spinal fusion was executed using the Surgical Theater SyncAR® Spine platform, incorporating Microsoft HoloLens headsets for an enhanced visual experience.
OrthoIndy is one of only five sites in the world where this advanced approach is being used.
“Surgical Theater has the ability to fundamentally change our interactions with patients, enabling a much deeper understanding of their medical issues and the procedures to address them,” said Dr. Poulter. “No current technology affords such clear and accessible insight for both patients in the clinic and surgeons in the operating room.”
Dr. Poulter also highlighted the significant enhancement in precision that this technology affords surgeons. “This technology enables us to perform surgical procedures with extraordinary accuracy, while minimizing incisions, “Dr. Poulter explained. “The patient’s MRI-based surgical plan is displayed directly within the headset, guiding our actions with unmatched precision.”
The collaboration between OrthoIndy and Surgical Theater represents a significant leap in both surgical visualization and patient involvement. It allows Indiana patients to engage with and understand the surgical plan via the headset before the operation. “Both the patient and I can view the plan. In the operating room, I can easily switch my view between the actual surgery and the XR guidance in the headset, ensuring constant focus on the procedure,” Dr. Poulter noted.
Alon Zuckerman, President of Surgical Theater, expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting its transformative impact on patient care. “Our partnership with OrthoIndy represents a significant milestone, emphasizing the collaborative spirit and mutual dedication that have been pivotal in enhancing the patient’s experience in spine surgery,” said Zuckerman. “We are immensely proud to work alongside such a distinguished organization, where our combined efforts are not only improving surgical outcomes but also instilling greater confidence and clarity for both surgeons and patients.
This innovative approach underscores the link between innovation and improved surgical outcomes. The success of this spinal fusion surgery heralds a new chapter in the evolution of surgical care, with OrthoIndy and Surgical Theater at the forefront of enhancing surgical accuracy and patient experiences through XR technology.
