Dr. Oscar Coss and Augmented Reality in Oncological Surgery

Augmented Reality and the Future of Oncological Surgery

Dr. Oscar Coss is an international pioneer in the application of augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality to surgical oncology. His work explores how emerging technologies can enhance surgical precision, safety and training in complex cancer operations.

What Is Augmented Reality in Surgery?

Augmented reality overlays digital information — 3D reconstructions of tumours, critical vascular anatomy, proposed resection boundaries — onto the surgeon's direct view of the operative field. This allows real-time guidance during complex resections, helping to identify tumour margins, preserve critical structures and achieve complete cytoreduction.

Applications in Oncological Surgery

Tumour margin delineation: Visualising the extent of resection required before making the incision. Vascular mapping: Identifying and protecting hepatic, portal and mesenteric vessels during hepatobiliary and peritoneal surgery. Cytoreductive surgery: Tracking the distribution of peritoneal disease to guide complete peritonectomy. Intraoperative navigation: Real-time guidance during robotic and laparoscopic procedures. Surgical training: Simulation and training applications using AR environments.

Current Status and Future

While augmented reality in surgery remains largely in the research and early clinical application phase, results are promising. The integration of pre-operative imaging data, intraoperative AR overlay and robotic precision represents the next generation of surgical oncology. Quenet Torrent Institute collaborates with international technology and academic centres to bring these innovations to patients.