Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are rapidly growing cutting-edge technologies that offer advanced navigational solutions. These technologies have become an increasingly important tool in interventional radiology (IR) in recent years with many potential applications.

AR and VR can be positioned on a continuum that spans from actual reality to pure virtual reality. AR merges medical imaging with the physical world, enabling healthcare professionals to interact with virtual objects within the real environment. This involves projecting preoperatively reconstructed computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) images onto the operator's head-mounted display or directly onto the patient. On the other hand, VR involves the construction of a fully immersive anatomical environment using computer-generated images or graphics, allowing for activities like participating in virtual surgical simulations.1

In the field of IR, the significance of AR as a navigation tool has grown considerably. Both AR and VR have the capability to provide interactive visualization and navigation of medical images, enabling more precise and efficient planning and guidance for interventional procedures. Moreover, AR and VR offer a wide range of potential advantages, including increased accuracy, quicker diagnosis, decreased radiation exposure, and improved patient satisfaction. They can be utilized to register real-time medical images with pre-operative data, enabling physicians to monitor their position during the procedure and identify anatomical structures and vessels. This can contribute to a reduction in complications and an increase in intervention accuracy.2

AR can create three-dimensional (3D) models of patient anatomy and medical images, enabling physicians to further their understanding of the patient's anatomy and plan the intervention accordingly. Additionally, VR can be employed to construct virtual simulations of interventional procedures, allowing physicians and trainees to practice and review the procedure before performing it on an actual patient. This can increase accuracy and minimize the risk of complications by creating a safer and more realistic training environment.3

This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current applications of AR and VR in interventional radiology and their potential benefits. Also, it discusses the challenges, limitations, and future directions of these technologies.