Description: Augmented reality (AR) in medicine refers to the integration of digital elements into the physical environment of the patient, thereby enhancing the healthcare experience. This technology allows for the overlay of visual information, such as medical images or clinical data, onto the real view of the physician or patient, facilitating the understanding and analysis of complex situations. AR is used both in the training of healthcare professionals and in assisting during surgical procedures, providing a valuable tool for visualization and decision-making. By combining the real world with virtual elements, augmented reality not only improves accuracy in diagnoses and treatments but also optimizes communication between doctors and patients, making healthcare more effective and personalized. Its relevance lies in the ability to transform the way medicine is practiced, offering an innovative approach that can reduce errors and improve clinical outcomes.
History: Augmented reality has its roots in the 1960s, but its application in medicine began to take shape in the 1990s. One significant milestone was the development of visualization systems that allowed healthcare professionals to see medical images in real-time during operations. In 2009, the ‘AccuVein’ software was launched, which uses AR to help locate veins in patients, marking a significant advancement in the application of this technology in healthcare.
Uses: Augmented reality is used in various areas of medicine, including the training of medical students, where it allows for interactive simulations and visualization of anatomy. It is also applied in surgical planning, where surgeons can overlay images from scans onto the patient’s body for better orientation. Additionally, it is used in rehabilitation, providing interactive exercises that enhance patient motivation.
Examples: A notable example of augmented reality in medicine is the use of AR headsets in surgery, where healthcare professionals can view 3D images of organs and structures while performing procedures. Another case is the use of mobile applications that allow doctors to visualize clinical data over the patient’s anatomy in real-time, thereby improving decision-making during care.
