The xvision Spine augmented reality system, launched by Chicago-based startup Augmedics in December, allows for real-time 3D visualization of the spinal anatomy during surgery.
The system costs about $179,000 and features a headset that helps surgeons accurately place implants without having to look away from the operative table.
Here are six centers using the technology that Becker's Spine Review has reported on since its launch:
1. Neurosurgeons Daniel Sciubba, MD, and Timothy Witham, MD, debuted the technology at Johns Hopkins in Medicine in June.
2. Frank Phillips, MD, performed a pair of minimally invasive AR-assisted spine surgeries with the Augmedics device at Midwest Orthopaedics in Chicago in June.
3. James Lynch, MD, was among the first private practice surgeons in the U.S. to perform a spinal fusion with the device at Renown Regional Medical Center in Reno, Nev.
4. Christopher Good, MD, performed surgery at Reston (Va.) Hospital Center with the technology, which he said will "elevate" the hospital's spine program.
5. Ishaq Syed, MD, is one of a few surgeons at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Frisco (Texas) to offer AR-assisted spine surgery with the Augmedics system.
6. John Keller, MD, performed his first AR-assisted spine surgery at Metro Health-University of Michigan Health in Wyoming, Mich., in September.
Note: This is not an exhaustive list. Contact Alan Condon at acondon@beckershealthcare.com with news on augmented reality in spine surgery.