Extended Reality Platform for Planning of Cranial and Spine Surgeries
Advanced 3D Visualization Helps Patients Understand Their Care and Helps Surgeons Plan with Greater Precision
RWJBarnabas Health is advancing neurosurgical care with an innovative extended reality (XR) platform that allows patients, caregivers and surgeons to see complex brain and spine conditions in immersive 3D. This technology transforms standard magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans into detailed, interactive models that support surgical planning, education and precision in the operating room.
The XR platform is used at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital (RWJUH) and Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center (CBMC).
What Is Extended Reality?
Extended reality (XR) includes virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR) technology. In neurosurgery, XR allows surgeons to create a highly detailed 3D model — sometimes called a “digital twin” — of a patient’s brain or spine using their own imaging studies.
These immersive models help:
- Plan and rehearse complex procedures
- Visualize critical structures such as nerves and blood vessels
- Guide surgical decision-making before and during surgery
- Help patients better understand their diagnosis and treatment plan
RWJBarnabas Health uses theeXperiential Reality® platform, which integrates with operating room systems and uses imaging enhanced by artificial intelligence (AI).
What Does XR Treat?
The XR platform supports care for patients undergoing neurosurgery for:
- Brain tumors
- Epilepsy
- Complex spine conditions
It is used as a planning, visualization and education tool alongside standard surgical care.
How XR Helps Patients and Families
Better Understanding of Conditions
Patients and caregivers can view their own anatomy in 3D—either on a screen or using VR glasses—guided by a neurosurgeon. This makes it easier to understand:
- Where the problem is located
- How the surgeon plans to approach it
- What to expect before, during, and after surgery
Reduced Anxiety Through Education
Patients may participate in a guided simulation of their surgical journey, including the pre-anesthesia area, operating room and recovery unit. This program was developed with input from psychology and neuropsychology specialists and is being studied for its ability to reduce surgical anxiety.
Benefits of XR-Guided Neurosurgery
XR-guided neurosurgery has an array of benefits including:
- Greater surgical precision
- Reduced operative time and blood loss
- Lower risk to healthy brain and spinal tissue
- Shorter hospital stays and faster recovery
- Improved patient understanding and confidence
What to Expect Before, During and After XR-Guided Surgery
Before the Procedure – Pre-Operative Planning and Simulation
Prior to surgery, XR can be used by surgeons to:
- Create a 3D model using imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans and explore the patient’s anatomy in 3D
- Evaluate multiple surgical approaches
- Select and rehearse surgery using the safest and most efficient path
Before XR-guided neurosurgery, patients follow a standard pre-operative process designed to support safety, comfort and readiness for surgery. Your care team will meet with you to explain the preparations and procedures, surgical approach, expected outcomes and recovery.
Care teams encourage patients to bring a family member or caregiver to pre-operative visits when possible.
During the Procedure – Enhanced Visualization in the Operating Room
During surgery, the surgical team will use advanced 3D visualization tools to guide the operation. XR technology integrates seamlessly with existing surgical systems.
- Augmented Reality (AR): Virtual overlays highlight important structures during surgery
- Mixed Reality (MR): Surgeons can interact with digital models in the real operating room environment
This level of visualization supports accuracy while helping preserve healthy tissue.
After the Procedure
Recovery from XR-guided surgery follows standard neurosurgical care protocols. Your care team will review next steps with you and discuss follow-up visits and warning signs to watch for.
Schedule an Appointment or Learn More
To learn whether XR-supported neurosurgery may be right for you, or to schedule a consultation, request an appointment with an RWJBarnabas Health neurologist today
Locations
Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital
New Brunswick, NJ
Advanced cranial, spine, brain tumor, and epilepsy surgery
Livingston, NJ
Epilepsy-focused neurosurgical care
