Augmented Reality Visualization in Musculoskeletal Interventions: User Feedback and Ergonomic Impact on Needle Placement Procedures.

In this retrospective review, a head-mounted augmented reality (AR) display was investigated to evaluate its clinical usability and ergonomic benefits across multiple musculoskeletal image-guided procedures. Data were collected through an electronic survey with 5-point Likert scale (n = 9) and single-user motion analysis. Nine interventional radiologists rated their experience in procedures including drainage, biopsy, endovascular procedure, ablation, and cement augmentation. Kinematic data were obtained from 14 needle placement procedures (10 kyphoplasties and 4 spinal biopsies), comparing sessions with AR enabled (n = 7) versus without AR (n = 7). User feedback indicated high comfort (median Likert score, 5), ease of use (median Likert score, 4), and positive ergonomic impact (median Likert score, 5), with 66% reporting improved ergonomics. Motion analysis revealed procedures without AR required more frequent (P = .003) and greater magnitude (P = .0002) head turns during image-guided needle advancement. AR demonstrated improvements in ergonomic efficiency and user satisfaction for musculoskeletal interventional procedures, although image quality refinement could enhance clinical adoption.