Virtual reality for orthognathic surgery: The augmented reality environment concept

Purpose: The objective of this study was to apply virtual reality technology to osteotomies of the facial skeleton. Materials and Methods: Augmented reality can be considered a hybrid of virtual and real environment spaces, which are coregistered and simultaneously visualized. Using a see-through HMD (head-mounted display) and Interventional Video Tomography intraoperatively, partial visual immersion into a patient-related virtual data space augments the surgeon's perception as shown in an experimental study and clinical applications. Results: Without limiting the surgical judgment, offering continuous observation of the operating field, the presented technology additionally provides visual access to invisible data of anatomy, physiology, and function and thus guarantees unencumbered and fluent surgery. Conclusion: Despite current shortcomings, augmented reality technology proved to be particularly well suited for use in osteotomies of the facial skeleton.