Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) are digital technologies that help people see or interact with computer-generated visuals in relation to the physical world. AR adds digital insights on top of real-world views. For example, a doctor might see a 3D anatomical model overlaid on a patient during a medical procedure. VR, on the other hand, places the user entirely inside a simulated environment—often through a headset—and can be used to rehearse actions before performing them in real life. These technologies are increasingly used in surgical planning, education, and practice to improve understanding and precision.
In surgery, AR and VR offer a new way for surgeons to view patient anatomy, plan complex procedures, and rehearse steps in a way that wasn’t possible with traditional 2D scans or textbooks alone. They are part of a broader shift toward digital, immersive tools that support decision-making, enhance skills, and reduce uncertainty before making the first incision.
Why AR & VR Matter for Surgery Today
AR and VR in surgery matter because they help improve accuracy, preparation, and outcomes. These technologies impact several groups:
Patients
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AR-guided overlays during surgery help surgeons locate tumors or critical anatomy with greater precision, potentially reducing complications and recovery time.
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VR-based simulations can reduce patient anxiety before procedures by helping them understand surgical steps in a safe, visual way.
Surgeons and Medical Staff
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AR systems can display real-time data during complex procedures, enhancing situational awareness.
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VR environments allow surgeons and trainees to practice rare or difficult operations without risk to patients.
Healthcare Education
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Medical students and residents can use VR to explore detailed anatomy and rehearse procedures repeatedly.
Healthcare Systems
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By improving planning and reducing errors, these technologies can lower some surgical risks and improve efficiency. AR-enabled teleconsultations also expand specialist access in underserved regions, helping with workforce shortages.
Recent Developments and Trends
AR and VR for surgical planning and related applications are progressing quickly both globally and in India. Here are recent trends worth noting:
AR and VR Used in Actual Surgeries (2025)
Hospitals in India have begun integrating AR and VR tools into real-world surgeries. For instance, surgeons in Vadodara at SSG Hospital used AR combined with VR headsets to precisely locate a previously treated tumor during breast cancer surgery, enabling a small incision and good cosmetic results.
Expansion of AR in Surgical Navigation
Across Indian medical centers in 2024–2025, AR is being used to assist in real-time navigation during complex surgeries such as orthopedics and neurosurgery. These systems overlay 3D visuals from scans onto the surgical field to guide instruments with greater precision than traditional imaging.
Training and Remote Guidance
VR-based surgical training and simulations are increasingly adopted in medical education programs, helping trainees build skills in a controlled virtual environment. Remote telepresence systems supported by AR also allow experts to advise or guide surgeries from a distance.
Healthcare Market Growth
Market projections show increasing investment and adoption of AR/VR tools in healthcare, driven by their roles in surgical planning, remote consultation, and immersive education. Initiatives to fund startups and build talent capabilities are strengthening the ecosystem.
Example Table — AR/VR Applications in Surgery
| Application Area | How It Helps | Example Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| AR Surgical Navigation | Real-time overlays of anatomy | Orthopedic alignment during joint replacement |
| VR Surgical Rehearsal | Practice in safe simulation | Neurosurgery simulation before operation |
| Patient Education | Visual understanding of procedure | Immersive pre-surgery walkthrough |
| Remote Assistance | Expert guidance from afar | AR-guided tele-surgery support |
Laws, Regulations, and Government Context (India)
Use of AR and VR in medical settings is influenced by broader health and technology policies rather than technology‑specific laws:
Medical Device Regulations
AR and VR systems used in clinical settings are considered medical devices in many countries. Regulatory agencies require evidence for safety and effectiveness before approval. For example, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) evaluates AR/VR medical device claims and categorizes them under its digital health or device standards.
In India, the government regulates medical devices through the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO), and technologies used during surgery must meet defined safety and quality standards before clinical use. While there may not be AR/VR‑specific acts, these tools fall under broader digital health and medical device approval frameworks.
Digital Health Initiatives
India’s digital health strategy (like the National Digital Health Mission and related programs) supports digital records and technology integration across healthcare systems. As AR/VR tools connect with patient data and visualisation platforms, compliance with data privacy and interoperability standards is essential.
Training and Education Policies
Government and academic partnerships (e.g., Indian Institutes of Technology and medical universities) have begun offering courses and certifications in AR/VR technologies. These efforts align with national skill development goals and help cultivate talent for health tech innovation.
Tools, Resources, and Platforms
Clinicians, students, and planners can leverage a wide range of AR/VR tools and platforms designed for surgical planning and education:
AR/VR Headsets and Visualization Tools
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Microsoft HoloLens – Used for overlaying 3D patient data during planning and simulation.
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Meta Quest (formerly Oculus) – Affordable VR headsets used for immersive surgical training simulations.
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Custom medical AR displays – Specialized systems tailored for operating room guidance.
Surgical Simulation Software
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Virtual anatomy libraries – Interactive 3D models of human anatomy for training.
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Procedure rehearsal platforms – Systems where surgeons can practice complex or rare surgeries before real operations.
Educational Courses and Programs
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AR/VR development courses – For health tech learners to build AR/VR applications (offered by many tech institutions).
Research and Journal Platforms
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Medical journals publishing studies on ethical and safe implementation of AR/VR in surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between AR and VR in surgery?
AR overlays digital information on the real world (like 3D anatomical guides during surgery), while VR creates a fully computer‑generated environment used mainly for training or rehearsal.
Are AR and VR tools widely used in Indian hospitals today?
Use in India is growing, with several hospitals adopting AR for surgical navigation and VR for training. However, adoption varies by hospital resources, specialty, and technical readiness.
Do these technologies replace surgeons?
No. AR and VR augment and support surgical planning and execution. Surgeons remain in control of all clinical decisions and actions.
Is it safe to use AR and VR in surgery?
Safety depends on proper training, device certification, and adherence to clinical guidelines. Regulatory bodies require evidence of safety and effectiveness before clinical deployment.
How do surgeons train with VR before real operations?
VR platforms provide simulated environments where trainees can practise steps of a procedure, respond to virtual complications, and build confidence without risk to patients.
Conclusion
AR and VR technologies are redefining how surgery is planned, taught, and performed. They provide immersive ways to visualise anatomy, rehearse procedures, and enhance collaboration among surgical teams. While clinical adoption is still advancing, recent use cases in India and worldwide show promising benefits in precision and training. Regulatory frameworks and digital health initiatives help shape safe and effective integration. As these tools continue to mature, they are likely to become a standard part of surgical practice, enabling better preparation and potentially improving outcomes for patients and medical professionals alike.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only. We do not make any claims or guarantees regarding the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of the information presented. The content is not intended as professional advice and should not be relied upon as such. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on the information provided in this article.