A new augmented reality system improves workflow in minimally invasive hepatobiliary-pancreatic surgery by overlaying real-time ultrasound images onto laparoscopic displays.

• Surgeons using this system, called Flag AR, maintained focus on a single monitor 97.9% of the time, significantly more than the 73.8% with conventional ultrasound.
• Flag AR cut down gaze shifts from 8.4 to 1.8, reducing cognitive load during procedures.

This could lead to better spatial awareness and efficiency, essential for complex surgeries.