THE USE OF VIRTUAL REALITY (VR) AND AUGMENTED REALITY (AR) IN MEDICINE: AN OVERVIEW OF CURRENT APPROACHES AND PERSPECTIVES

Abstract

Introduction. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) are opening new horizons in medicine by enabling the creation of interactive environments. VR simulates a fully artificial world where patients or medical professionals can practice skills or perform therapeutic tasks. AR places digital elements into the real world, enriching it with valuable information for diagnostics, training, or treatment. Recent studies demonstrate the effectiveness of VR and AR in surgery, rehabilitation, psychotherapy, and medical education.