The application of augmented reality in robotic general surgery: A mini-review

In robotic surgery, surgical planning and surgical navigation represent two crucial elements, allowing surgeons to maximize surgical outcomes while minimizing the risk of complications. In this context, an emerging imaging technology, namely augmented reality (AR), can represent a powerful tool to create an integration of preoperative 3D models into the live intraoperative view, providing an interactive visual interface rather than a simple operative field. In this way, surgeons can be guided by preoperative imaging during the operation. This makes the surgical procedure more accurate and safer, leading to so-called “precision surgery”. This article aims to provide an overview of developments in the application of AR in robotic general surgery. The integration of this imaging technology in this surgical field is showing promising results. The main benefits include improved oncological outcomes and reduced occurrence of complications. In addition, its application may also be important for surgical education. However, we are still in the initial phase of the experience and some important limitations remain. Moreover, to our knowledge, to date, reports in the literature regarding the integration of AR in robotic general surgery are still very limited. To improve its application, close collaboration between engineers, software developers, and surgeons is mandatory.