Augmented Reality for Enhanced Surgical Precision: A Framework for Real-Time Visualization and Navigation

The advancement of Augmented reality (AR) technology has made it possible to use it in surgical precision and better the lives of patients. This paper outlines a real-time visualization and navigation framework where AR is integrated into surgical work. CT and MRI imaging data are used in the system to create accurate and rather detailed preoperative 3D anatomical models. These models are overlaid on the surgeon's vision, being the integral part of the system, providing the surgeon with dynamic constant assistance during procedures. To surmount the problem of misalignment of the virtual overlays with the patient's anatomy due to movements of the patient in the operating room, the framework uses complex tracking algorithms as well as machine learning techniques. It highlights planner pre-operative, intra-operative visualization and decision support mainly in complicated surgical cases. In the case of minimally invasive surgery, the framework was used to position the instruments correctly with improved accuracy, cutting short on time to operate, and countering complications. This research shows how AR can benefit today's surgery, as an origination of increased accuracy and a closing of the gap between conception and operations. It has also discussed some of the issues like scalability, cost, and the required training for the surgeon for the use of such system and has therefore provided a direction for the large-scale use of AR-assisted surgical systems.