The ‘Magic Leap' system, used for the first time at the Royal Stoke University Hospital, allows surgeons to see detailed 3D images of a patient's spine during an operation through virtual reality goggles.

Mr Vinay Jasani, consultant spinal surgeon, used the technology to perform surgery on 14-year-old Dylan Jaxon, who has scoliosis.

Mr Jasani said: ‘This technology gives us a new level of precision, it's like having Google Maps in the operating theatre. It allows us to merge multiple images, such as X-rays and MRI scans for a clearer more accurate view.

‘In spinal surgery, the margin for error is incredibly small, so anything that reduces complications and improves patient safety is a major step forward.'

The technology will now be used to support around 600 spinal procedures each year at UHNM, helping to enhance surgical precision, reduce operation times and reduce hospital stays.