Clinical trial tests the use of Apple Vision Pro applications during surgery

According to the researchers, the minimally invasive surgeons at UC San Diego Health are the first in the US to evaluate the potential use of spatial computing apps on Apple Vision Pro in surgery.

The feasibility study was conducted after two months of testing in the Center for the Future of Surgery at the University of California San Diego School of Medicine.

“As surgeons, we are always looking for technologies that can help us deliver more safe and precise surgeries for our patients,” Santiago Horgan, MD, chief of minimally invasive surgery at UC San Diego Health and director of the Center for the Future of Surgery, said in a statement. “The experience of the surgeon in the operating room, while interacting with imaging, is critical to patient outcomes.”

“This study is investigating whether spatial computing technology can enhance the surgical experience. Using an app that can stream a video feed from other devices, Apple Vision Pro can display the patient’s medical imaging, vital signs and the surgical camera view in real-time to guide decision making while the surgeon operates in a more ergonomic position. We are exploring whether this technology could revolutionise the operating room environment to benefit patients and doctors.”