For the first ever time in the NHS, some chronic pain patients are benefitting from an innovative way of delivering pain-relieving injections using augmented reality (AR) at George Eliot Hospital NHS Trust.

The Trust is trailing the implementation of the technology, through an Apple Vision Pro headset, in delivering ultrasound guided injections. This has been hugely well received by patients as it helps improve accuracy, efficiency and overall outcome for patients this essential treatment.

AR is an interactive experience that enhances the real world with computer-generated perceptual information. 

Dr Arul James, clinical lead chronic pain medicine at George Eliot Hospital, said: “We are proud to be leading on this revolutionary new use of AR in helping patients with their chronic pain treatment during ultrasound guided injections.

“Millions of people worldwide suffer from chronic pain. It affects quality of life and often eludes complete relief through conventional methods.

“Targeted treatments, such as injections and nerve blocks, are critical for many patients. Historically, these procedures required clinicians to shift their focus between the patient and the ultrasound device, affecting both accuracy and comfort, but using AR means there is no break in focus and better accuracy when delivering the treatment.”

The Trust said the treatment sees potential application for a select group of patients going forward.