UHNM first in UK to use virtual reality technology in spinal surgery

Surgeons at University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust (UHNM) have become the first in the UK to use new virtual reality technology during spinal surgery.

The ‘Magic Leap’ system, used for the first time at the Royal Stoke University Hospital, allows surgeons to see detailed 3D images of a patient’s spine during an operation through specially designed virtual reality goggles.

Mr Vinay Jasani, consultant spinal surgeon, used the technology to perform complex surgery on 14-year-old Dylan Jaxon, who has scoliosis, a condition that causes the spine to curve abnormally. 

Over the past year Dylan’s condition had worsened, with the curvature of his spine beginning to compress one of his lungs. But thanks to the pioneering surgery Dylan, who is from Wolverhampton, is now “back to his old self” and able to stand taller and breathe more easily.

Mr Jasani said: “This technology gives us a new level of precision, it’s like having Google Maps in the operating theatre. It allows us to merge multiple images, such as X-rays and MRI scans for a clearer more accurate view.

“In spinal surgery, the margin for error is incredibly small, so anything that reduces complications and improves patient safety is a major step forward.”

Dylan said: “Before the operation I couldn’t do cadets or after-school clubs, I was often in bed and in pain. It’s weird to think I had all that equipment used on me, it’s out of this world.”

Dylan’s mum Mandy said: “"He towers over me, I'm the smallest now. He's a superstar."

The technology will now be used to support around 600 spinal procedures each year at UHNM, helping to enhance surgical precision, reduce operation times and reduce hospital stays.