Marcus Neuroscience Institute Performs First Next-Generation Augmented Reality Spinal Surgery at Bethesda Hospital West
Boca Raton, FL- February 10th, 2025-Marcus Neuroscience Institute, part of Baptist Health, at Bethesda Hospital West, is now offering next-generation augmented reality (AR) spinal surgery with novel, advanced, high-resolution AR technology. The first surgery using the latest version of this novel technology, in Florida, was done by neurosurgeon Timothy O’Connor, M.D., director of minimally invasive and robotic spine surgery.
“The future of spine surgery is here. While performing this procedure, we can see the patient’s anatomy in high definition, with their imaging superimposed directly in our field of vision to allow real-time guidance when wearing the AR headset during surgery,” said Dr. O’Connor. “Being able to utilize this novel, high-resolution technology is a groundbreaking achievement in advancing patient care, and by harnessing this innovation, we will be able to reduce recovery times, minimize pain, and significantly enhance outcomes for our patients. It’s a testament to our commitment at Baptist Health to lead the way and improve the lives of those we serve.”
Some of the benefits of using this new technology on patients include:
- Allowing for more accuracy and precision in surgery.
- Less cutting of tissue during surgery.
- Minimizes pain for patients.
- Shorter surgical time and reduced recovery time.
- Reduces exposure to radiation.
Augmented reality spine surgery overlays a 3D, computer-generated model of a patient's spine onto their anatomy during surgery, allowing surgeons to see crucial landmarks and critical structures through a special high-resolution headset. This essentially gives them "3D vision" to guide precise instrument placement and surgical navigation, all while maintaining direct visual contact with the patient. This innovation also offers the benefit of improved hand-eye coordination by accurately superimposing 3D stereoscopic displays for surgical instruments onto anatomic landmarks.
For more information on this technology and how it could benefit you, go to our website at Marcus Neuroscience Institute | Baptist Health Brain & Spine Care or call 561-955-4600.
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About Baptist Health South Florida
Baptist Health South Florida is the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 12 hospitals, more than 28,000 employees, 4,500 physicians and 200 outpatient centers, urgent care facilities and physician practices spanning Miami-Dade, Monroe, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Baptist Health has internationally renowned institutes specializing in cancer care, brain and spine care, heart and vascular care and orthopedic care. In addition, it includes Baptist Health Medical Group; Baptist Health Quality Network; and the Baptist Health PineApp, a virtual health platform. Baptist Health South Florida is an academic and clinical affiliate of Florida International University. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to its charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has been recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and is the most awarded healthcare system in South Florida by U.S. News & World Report. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/Newsroom and connect with us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.
