Augmented reality in maxillofacial reconstructive surgery. (Literature review)

Augmented reality (AR) is gaining increasing relevance in maxillofacial reconstructive surgery by enabling the integration of digital preoperative planning into the real-time surgical field. This systematic review analyzes current studies on the use of AR in fibula osteotomies, perforator flap harvesting, auricular reconstruction, and zygomatic-orbital complex repair. Special attention is paid to hologram registration methods, types of devices (HMDs, tablets), and accuracy of virtual navigation. Key technical limitations are outlined, including image instability and depth perception issues. AR systems demonstrate comparable accuracy to CAD/CAM templates and offer additional advantages such as intraoperative plan adjustments without compromising sterility. The findings support the potential of AR as a tool for personalized surgical navigation, provided that current technological barriers are addressed.