Abstract

Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) are significantly transforming the healthcare industry by enhancing various aspects of medical training, diagnosis, treatment, and patient care. AR overlays digital information onto the real world, offering applications such as visualizing anatomical structures, assisting in surgeries, aiding in vein visualization, and enabling remote collaboration. In contrast, VR creates fully immersive digital environments, providing risk-free training simulations, aiding in pain management and rehabilitation, supporting mental health treatments, and enhancing patient education. The key distinction between AR and VR is their user experience: AR enriches the real world with additional information, while VR creates entirely virtual environments. Both technologies are revolutionizing healthcare by offering unique benefits AR for improving precision and real-time decision-making in medical practice, and VR for immersive training and therapeutic interventions. Their continued evolution promises to further enhance healthcare outcomes and introduce innovative treatment options.