Augmented reality (AR) is an interactive experience of an immersive, simulated real-world environment in which objects that reside in the real world are enhanced by computer-generated information to impact the senses of sight, hearing, touch, or smell. AR requires technology components such as a processor, display, and sensors. AR can be accessed using a smartphone, tablet computer, special headset or other technologies.
This differs slightly from virtual reality. In virtual reality, a user’s perception of reality is based completely on virtual information. But in augmented reality, a user is provided with additional computer-generated information to enhance their perception of reality.
Uses of AR in medicine include: smart glasses that allow surgeons to see high-resolution, 3D representations of their patients’ anatomy (akin to X-ray vision); enhanced viewing of a fetus inside a mother’s womb; and a near-infrared vein finder that films veins under the skin and projects the image onto the skin to help with blood draws or placement of intravenous catheters, etc.