Insight Medical and Onkos Surgical join hands to explore ways to apply augmented reality in musculoskeletal oncology

Insight Medical Systems has teamed up with Onkos Surgical, Inc. to explore opportunities to apply Insight Medical's ARVIS^™ (Augmented Reality Visualization and Information System) in musculoskeletal oncology. The companies are working on a pilot project to assess the technology for use in tumor surgery.

ARVIS^™, currently under development, has tracking and visualization capabilities which allow precise and efficient execution of surgical plans. The headset has the ability to project virtual models of the patient's anatomy into the surgeon's field of view during the surgical procedure so that anatomical structures beneath the surface are visible. Similarly, virtual models of the implants or instruments are projected so that the surgeon can see their relationship to the hidden anatomical structures. Key measurements, such as the orientation and position of instruments and implants relative to the patient's anatomy, are displayed. This may enable less invasive surgery, improve outcomes and reduce patient risk.

"Onkos Surgical is investing heavily in capabilities and technology to bring innovation to musculoskeletal oncology surgeons. Augmented reality technology has the potential of simplifying the complex and providing surgeons with input and feedback that may improve the precision of surgical planning and interoperative workflow. This technology fits well with our portfolio of Precision Oncology solutions," said Patrick Treacy, CEO and Co-founder of Onkos.

"The convergence of 3D imaging, modeling and printing with advanced simulation technology will be transformative for oncology surgeons," said Shervin Oskouei, MD, Assistant Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta, Georgia. "Oncology surgeons are working on complex pathologies that require precise surgical intervention. Augmented reality may present an interesting approach to navigating these complex reconstructions."

"We're excited to partner with Onkos, who is a leader in the field of orthopedic oncology," said Jonathan Nielsen, Vice President of R&D, Insight Medical Systems. "There is a great opportunity to improve precision and visualization in these complex procedures, and Onkos is an ideal partner to jointly develop a system that complements their expertise in surgical planning and implant design."