The potential of Real-Time volume-rendered 3D Imaging in immersive virtual-reality (VR) for surgical planning in infants with congenital thoracic malformation (CTM)

Patient-specific VR reconstructions act as digital twins, enhancing surgical planning precision and providing a personalized anatomical roadmap for CTM management. While time demands remain a limitation, VR as a digital twin aligns with precision medicine and smart hospital paradigms. It also supports less experienced surgeons and fosters interdisciplinary collaboration. Larger multicenter studies should explore its integration into perioperative decision-making and training.