The Laboratory of Biomechanics of the University of Debrecen has purchased a cutting-edge holographic device that allows more accurate surgical interventions. Biologist Katalin Karikó, who patented synthetic mRNA vaccine technologies, has offered part of the amount she had received with the Debrecen Award for Molecular Medicine to support the Laboratory.

- With this device, a new era begins in the Laboratory – said professor Zoltán Csernátony, head of the Laboratory of Biomechanics, Department of Orthopaedics.  


The HoloLens is a wireless holographic device, which uses augmented reality that combines the virtual and the physical worlds to help surgeons during interventions.

- Using pre-surgery CT images, the combined vision of virtual and actual images allows us to look into a patient’s body and see what we could not see otherwise. During surgeries, we see only a part of the bone structure. This device allows surgeons to see a 3D model of the area based on the CT image, which results in more accurate interventions – explained professor Csernátony.

Surgeons can zoom in or out during interventions without a controller, using only their fingers.

The Laboratory of Biomechanics is planning to develop the software of the device. According to professor Csernátony, such an innovation would allow huge progress in surgical interventions. The new device would make the use of costly and cumbersome navigation devices unnecessary.


- The point is to allow surgeons to see where incisions and drilling must be done exactly. HoloLens gives visual feedback and, with a connected device, also navigates surgeons with vibration. However, it is very difficult to combine virtual and physical reality to achieve the level of precision required for a surgical procedure – pointed out Sándor Manó, scientific associate of the Laboratory.


Katalin Karikó received EUR 10,000 with the Debrecen Award for Molecular Medicine, with which she has also supported the National Academy of Scientists which focuses on talent management.

- The Laboratory of Biomechanics aims to support research and patient treatment. In these hard times, this donation is a huge help – László Mátyus, dean of the Faculty of Medicine told hirek.unideb.hu

Professor Mátyus added that the Award was established in 2003 to recognise the work of researchers who had achieved international success in the field of molecular medicine. Katalin Karikó is the first to use the money that comes with the award for donation.

Press Centre - CzA