Why Surgeons Are Wearing the Apple Vision Pro in Operating Rooms

Surgeons at UC San Diego Health have begun using Apple Vision Pro headsets during minimally invasive surgeries, claiming the technology enhances their effectiveness and reduces the risk of injury. Santiago Horgan, who previously pioneered robotically assisted gastric-bypass surgery, leads this initiative. The headsets allow surgeons to view critical information, such as CT scans and patient vitals, without diverting their gaze from the surgical field, addressing discomfort reported by many surgeons during procedures. Despite the Apple Vision Pro's commercial struggles, its price of $3,499 is considered affordable compared to traditional operating room monitors, making it appealing for smaller hospitals. The FDA has yet to approve the device for widespread medical use, but UC San Diego plans to publish research on its efficacy in various medical applications. Other companies are also developing similar technologies, but the Vision Pro's adaptability and high-resolution capabilities set it apart. Surgeons emphasize the importance of maintaining patient privacy when using connected devices in the operating room. Overall, the integration of augmented reality in surgery is seen as a potential standard practice in the future.

- Surgeons at UC San Diego are using Apple Vision Pro headsets to improve surgical outcomes.

- The headsets allow for simultaneous viewing of surgical fields and critical patient data.

- The technology is considered cost-effective compared to traditional surgical equipment.

- Research on the efficacy of the headsets in medical applications is forthcoming.

- Patient privacy concerns are highlighted with the use of connected devices in surgery.