Virtual and augmented reality in neurosurgery (First experiences in education and clinical practice)

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) are innovative technologies that enhance the way surgical techniques are taught. In simulating surgical procedures, we integrate the immersiveness of Virtual Reality (IVR) with the method of cognitive-motor dual tasking (CMDT), similar to its use in rehabilitation.  Augmented Reality (AR) combines the real world with digital information. In neurosurgery, it is beginning to be used in surgical planning, allowing, for example, the synchronization of a robot and VR image in brain and spinal surgeries. Based on initial experiences with teaching surgery (4 surgery modules) using these technologies, we can confirm:

1. Improved visualization of anatomical structures.
2. Increased student motivation with feedback in real time from instructors.
3. Shortened learning curve - being verified within the project.
4. Reduced error rates, thereby increasing patient safety - being verified within the project.

Overall, VR and AR represent a significant step forward in the field of medical education and practice.

The project was supported by the Just transition operational program of the state environmental fund of the Czech Republic as part of the LERCO project (CZ.10.03.01/0 0/22_003/0000003).

Dr. Michal Filip works as a neurosurgeon (1984- today) and since 2003 has been teaching and collaborating on scientific research activities at the OSU Faculty of Medicine. In addition to neurosurgical topics (replacement of intervertebral discs and intraoperative tumor US imaging), his long-term research activities include telemedicine applications, virtual reality and BCI. During his many years of career, he participated as lead author or co-author in a large number of studies on these topics published in domestic and international journals. HI 7. The ability to solve the given problem and to successfully lead and coordinate the presented cooperation project is also evidenced by his extensive managerial experience gained in solving national and international projects, as well as long-term cooperation with the commercial and application sphere. He currently collaborates on this research with e.g. the rehabilitation clinic of the OSU Faculty of Medicine, VR Life a.s., Brain Lab a.s., the Department of Applied Informatics and Artificial Intelligence at the Technical University of Zlín, VŠB Ostrava, the Institute of Physics of the University of Silesia, Opava, and is a co-author of research projects on these topics (nationwide the TAČR project and the SMK project). Since 2021, he has been the head of the center of excellence for artificial intelligence, VR and telemedicine at OSU Faculty of Medicine.