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For the first time in the world, doctors at the Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Jerusalem have successfully combined state-of-the-art augmented reality technology and robotic technology in complex spine surgery, Israeli news agency TPS reported.

The head of the surgical team that has taken an innovative approach to an unstable spine fracture is spinal neurosurgeon Caesar Mizrahi. In an accident at work, a 25-year-old patient suffered severe spinal injury. Mizrahi was called when the patient was diagnosed with a fractured spine threatening his movement and neurological condition, dir.bg wrote.

Dr. Mizrahi, an expert from the department of spinal surgery of the hospital in the Department of Neurosurgery, has chosen a new approach. During the operation, an augmented reality spine surgical robot was used to provide real-time guidance for precise placement of surgical screws along the spine. This technique, which has not been tested anywhere in the world so far, has increased the precision of the surgical team while minimizing unforeseen developments in the situation.

Augmented reality combines digital information (computer-generated images, videos, sounds, or other data) with the user's perception of the real world. Unlike virtual reality, which immerses users in an entirely virtual environment, augmented emphasizes the real world by superimposing digital elements on top of it. This is achieved through various devices, including smartphones, tablets, smart glasses and more.

Doctors perform a unique 8-hour life-saving operation

Mizrahi was wearing special glasses. The doctor compared the experience to that of a combat pilot equipped with an advanced helmet. Augmented reality glasses gave important information about the patient, generated images from computed tomography directly in the surgeon's field of vision. This information allowed Mizrahi to develop a strategy and execute the surgical plan with extreme precision, making the necessary adjustments in the course of the procedure.

"The integration of augmented reality and robotics into this minimally invasive technique has not been carried out anywhere in the world. To our great joy, combining these innovations has directly benefited the patient and improved healthcare to people in Jerusalem and beyond," Mizrahi said.

Shaare Zedek said that immediately after the operation, the patient was able to walk without help and is expected to be discharged in the coming days.

"The procedure was successful and we are very grateful for Dr. Mizrahi's treatment," the patient said. "Before the operation, we were very worried and did not know what was going to happen, but it was carried out quickly and successfully and I recovered faster than expected. I can walk now. Dr. Mizrahi regularly comes to check on me and I am very grateful to him with all my heart."

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