Augmented reality and three-dimensional plate library-assisted posterior minimally invasive surgery for scapula fracture

Purpose Treating scapular fractures is still a challenging task for surgeons. We aimed to evaluate the feasibility, accuracy, and effectiveness of augmented reality (AR) and three-dimensional (3D) plate library-assisted posterior minimally invasive surgery, named AR-scapular system for scapula fracture. We speculated that using AR-scapular system would improve efficiency and quality for scapular fracture surgery. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the records of 21 patients with scapular fractures treated by posterior minimally invasive surgery with reconstruction plates: nine patients were treated with conventional fixation in group I; whereas 12 patients were treated with pre-operative virtual simulation and intra-operative navigation–assisted fixation using AR-scapular system. We compared operative time, blood loss, complication, and Hardegger function between two groups. Statistical analyses evaluated significant differences between the groups for each of these variables. Results In group II, the pre-operative virtual simulation time was 44.42 ± 15.54 min. The time required for pre-operative contouring of the plates was 16.08 ± 5.09 minutes. The patients in group II had significantly shorter operation time and less blood loss (− 28.75 min and − 81.94 ml, respectively; P < 0.05) than patients in the conventional surgery group. The average numbers of plates used were 1.56 ± 0.53 in group I and 1.25 ± 0.45 in group II. The difference was not statistically significant ( P > 0.05). The follow-up function outcome results were similar between groups ( P > 0.05). There were no intra-operative or post-operative complications for all patients. Conclusion Augmented reality and 3D plate library-assisted posterior minimally invasive surgery is an effective and reliable method for treating scapular fractures which can provide precise pre-operative planning and intraoperative navigation. This time-saving approach can give a more customized treatment plan, allowing for a safer reduction surgery. What is more, the portable projector is cheap and easy to use.