Augmented reality (AR) can help patients better understand their spine diagnosis while also assisting neurosurgeons with planning surgeries. By fusing an MRI and CT scan together, a virtual 3D model can be created and viewed using special AR goggles. The model can be rotated or manipulated by the surgeon to demonstrate to a patient what needs to be done, as well as the benefits and risks of the surgery. Surgeons can also use this model to practice and plan on patient-specific anatomy to tailor their surgical approach for that patient.