Workflow Caveats in Augmented Reality-Assisted Pedicle Instrumentation: Cadaver Lab

BACKGROUND: Augmented reality (AR) is gaining popularity in gaming, industrial, military, and medical fields. Neurosurgical applications are currently limited and underdeveloped. METHODS: The cadaver lab session was prepared with the currently available AR equipment and software. Pedicle instrumentation was performed from thoracic 1 to the pelvis with either fluoroscopy or AR. RESULTS: A total of 38 screws were placed. There were no major breaches on the fluoroscopy-assisted side. Among the AR screws, 3 had a major medial breach and 4 had a major inferior breach. The cause of a 3 breaches appeared to be related to an error in the starting position, as their overall orientation remained correctly parallel to the original trajectory. CONCLUSIONS: The article discusses the potential and limitations of AR in its current state and identifies strategies for successful AR application in future surgery.