Numerous cases have emerged of individuals utilizing Apple’s Vision Pro augmented reality headset in reckless ways, such as operating Tesla Cybertrucks, skydiving, or even during wedding ceremonies. Despite such misuse, the Vision Pro holds significant potential for transformative applications, particularly in the medical realm. Although the idea of employing Vision Pro in medicine may initially appear unconventional, its capacity to enhance visualization of crucial details and provide access to surgery-assisting software could significantly enhance medical outcomes. A recent surgery on a patient’s rotator cuff, conducted by a Brazilian doctor, exemplifies this potential.
The utilization of a head-mounted display (HMD) in medicine and the adoption of augmented reality are not novel concepts. As early as March of this year, Cromwell Hospital employed a Vision Pro in the operating room to assist in spinal surgery, reducing the likelihood of human error and the need for guesswork, which, although unsettling, is prevalent. Furthermore, Microsoft’s HoloLens had previously been integrated into certain hospitals, an experience familiar to Doctor Bruno Gobbato before transitioning to the Apple Vision Pro for surgical procedures.
According to a report from Mac Magazine, orthopedic surgeon Bruno Gobbato and his team at Jaraguá Hospital in Brazil conducted a rotator cuff repair surgery utilizing the Apple Vision Pro. While employing 3D models and the Notes app for various purposes, the most intriguing aspect was the utilization of the headset to project a camera feed onto a screen. The article elaborates that the procedure involved “a camera inside the joint,” and through the Vision Pro, they were able to display the camera feed in cinema size with high resolution, along with real-time access to the patient’s exams and 3D models. This innovative use of augmented reality has the potential to enhance surgical precision, consequently leading to improved patient outcomes.