VisAR, an augmented reality surgical guidance system, received FDA approval for intraoperative spine surgery.
The system transforms imaging data into a 3D hologram that is visible and superimposed on the patient, according to a June 15 news release. It is designed to help surgeons focus on surgery without looking at a separate monitor. Surgical accuracy is less than 2 millimeters for pedicle screw placement and minimally invasive spine cases.
Novarad, the company behind VisAR, partnered with Microsoft to use an off-the-shelf AR headset, which allows for lowered costs. VisAR is available in the U.S., and head and neck indications are also being considered for FDA approval.