Marshall Health Network, Intermed Labs advance next-generation surgical visualization through spatial arthroscopy

Dr. Chad Lavender tests his spacial arthroscopy in the operating room.

Marshall Health Network, in collaboration with Intermed Labs (IL), has announced the development of spatial arthroscopy, an innovative technology designed to transform how surgeons visualize and interact with minimally invasive procedures. The project, currently in development, was conceptualized by Chad D. Lavender, MD, and represents a new frontier in surgical ergonomics and digital integration.

Traditional arthroscopy requires surgeons to look away from the operative field to view a fixed, wall-mounted monitor. This disconnect can lead to physical strain, spatial disorientation and inefficiencies during procedures. Spatial arthroscopy addresses this long-standing challenge by introducing a heads-up display that allows surgeons to maintain continuous focus on the surgical field.

The technology integrates surgical video feeds with advanced hardware and software systems, including early use of Apple Vision Pro, enabling the operative view to appear directly within the surgeon’s line of sight. This approach not only improves ergonomics but also opens the door for future capabilities such as voice commands, digital overlays and automated documentation.

“For years, surgeons have had to divide their attention between the patient and a separate screen,” said Lavender, inventor of spatial arthroscopy and assistant professor of orthopaedic surgery at the Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine. “By bringing the visual field directly in front of the surgeon, we can improve focus, reduce strain, and create a more immersive surgical experience. Having already utilized this technology during a procedure, we’re seeing firsthand the potential it has to change the way minimally invasive surgery is performed.”

Lavender has already successfully used Apple Vision Pro to view a surgical video feed during a procedure, positioning this work among the earliest known applications of the technology in an operative setting in the United States.

“The ergonomics of surgery are too often overlooked,” said Ali Oliashirazi, M.D., professor and chair of orthopaedic surgery at the Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine. “Dr. Lavender’s innovative spirit and visionary thinking are poised to transform the surgical experience for generations of surgeons to come.”

Intermed Labs is supporting the development of spatial arthroscopy through its structured venture studio model, helping translate clinical insight into scalable healthcare innovation.

“Spatial arthroscopy represents the kind of forward-thinking innovation that happens when clinicians challenge long-standing norms in the operating room,” said Justin Chambers, co-founder of Intermed Labs. “This is not just an incremental improvement; it’s a reimagining of how surgeons interact with technology. We’re excited to help advance this concept and explore its full potential across surgical specialties.”

Marshall University leadership emphasized the importance of fostering innovation at the intersection of healthcare, technology and academic research.

“Marshall University is proud to support groundbreaking work that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in healthcare,” said Brad D. Smith, president of Marshall. “This collaboration highlights the power of combining clinical expertise with emerging technologies to create solutions that can improve outcomes for patients and providers alike.”

Spatial arthroscopy is currently in active development, with ongoing efforts to refine the technology and evaluate future applications. The collaboration underscores a shared commitment between Marshall Health Network and Intermed Labs to advance clinician-driven innovation and bring next-generation surgical solutions to life.

Learn more about medical technology innovations at Marshall Health Network and Marshall University at marshall.edu/murc/intermed-labs-at-marshall-university. Learn more about Marshall Orthopaedics at marshallhealth.org/orthopaedics. To schedule an appointment, call 304-691-6710.