In a remarkable milestone for medical technology, the Apple Vision Pro, an advanced augmented reality (AR) device, was recently utilized for the first time in a live bariatric surgery. The operation by renowned bariatric surgeon Dr Mohit Bhandari at Pristyn Care in New Delhi represents a significant leap forward in integrating AR technology into medical practice. This pioneering procedure has opened new horizons for surgical precision and patient outcomes, marking a turning point in complex surgeries.
The historic surgery
Dr. Bhandari, alongside his team, performed a sleeve gastric bypass and a Single Anastomosis Duodenal-Ileal (SADI) procedure on a 45-year-old male patient weighing 155 kg. The patient, who suffered from obstructive sleep apnea and high blood pressure, required an exact surgical intervention to address his health issues. The surgery, which lasted 40 minutes, was completed with the aid of the Apple Vision Pro, highlighting the device’s potential to revolutionize surgical procedures.
The Apple Vision Pro provided an immersive and interactive 3D environment that allowed Dr. Bhandari and his team to visualize complex anatomical structures with unprecedented clarity. This advanced visualization capability facilitated enhanced precision, minimizing risks and improving patient outcomes. Dr. Bhandari expressed his enthusiasm about the technology, stating, “The successful use of Apple Vision Pro in these complex procedures opens up new possibilities in surgical precision and patient outcomes. We are proud to lead the way in integrating advanced AR technology into medical practice.”
The device’s ability to create a detailed 3D representation of the surgical area enabled the surgeons to easily navigate intricate details, ensuring that the procedures were performed accurately. This technological advancement not only aids in the precision of the surgery but also contributes to shorter recovery times and better overall patient experiences.
Pristyn Care: pioneering medical innovation
Pristyn Care, co-founded by Dr Vaibhav Kapoor, Dr Garima Sawhney, and Harsimarbir Singh in August 2018, has consistently been at the forefront of adopting cutting-edge technology to enhance patient care. With over 200 in-house super-speciality surgeons and a network of partner hospitals and clinics, Pristyn Care is dedicated to providing advanced secondary care surgeries. The integration of Apple Vision Pro into their surgical procedures is a testament to their commitment to pushing the boundaries of medical innovation. Dr Vaibhav Kapoor, the co-founder of Pristyn Care, highlighted the significance of this achievement, saying, “The successful integration of Apple Vision Pro into bariatric surgery marks a significant milestone in our journey towards revolutionizing surgical procedures. We are proud to be at the forefront of this technological advancement, which promises to enhance precision, improve outcomes, and set new benchmarks in the healthcare industry.”
The growing role of Apple Vision Pro in medicine
The successful application of the Apple Vision Pro in bariatric surgery is part of a broader trend of incorporating AR technology into various medical procedures. Before this, the device had been used in laparoscopic surgeries at Chennai’s GEM Hospital and in complex spinal procedures in London. In each case, the Apple Vision Pro provided surgeons with high-resolution images and real-time data, significantly enhancing their ability to perform intricate operations with greater accuracy and efficiency. Dr R Parthasarathy, Chief Operating Officer at GEM Hospitals, praised the device for its clear visualization capabilities and real-time monitoring, which facilitated smoother and more effective surgeries. He noted that the technology allowed for seamless communication with surgeons in other locations through FaceTime, enabling collaborative efforts and immediate expert consultations during operations.
A future of technological integration in healthcare
The use of Apple Vision Pro in live bariatric surgery signifies a transformative moment in integrating AR technology into healthcare. As more medical institutions adopt such advanced tools, the potential for improving surgical outcomes and patient care becomes increasingly apparent. The technology not only aids in the precision and success of surgeries but also enhances the overall patient experience by reducing recovery times and minimizing complications. The continued evolution of AR devices like the Apple Vision Pro promises to set new standards in the healthcare industry. The successful implementation of this technology in various surgical procedures highlights its versatility and potential to revolutionize medical practice. As Dr. Bhandari and Dr. Kapoor have demonstrated, embracing technological advancements can significantly improve patient care and surgical outcomes, paving the way for a new era of precision and innovation in medicine.
