Integrating the Metaverse Into Medical Practice: A Systematic Review of Its Potential and Applications.

INTRODUCTION: The metaverse, characterized by the convergence of virtual and physical realities, represents an emerging concept which offers immersive and interactive experiences with the potential to revolutionize medical care. This study aims to explore the current applications of this technology across various medical specialties. METHOD: A systematic search was conducted across five electronic databases including Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, and IEEE, using a structured query in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. A qualitative analysis was conducted to synthesize findings across different categories such as medical domains, types of metaverse, implementation approaches, target groups, and clinical disciplines. RESULTS: This review included 46 studies published between 2022 and 2024, with South Korea contributing the majority of publications (n = 12, 24%). Applications spanned diverse medical domains, notably medical education (n = 7, 15.22%), mental health (n = 6, 13.04%), and rehabilitation (n = 6, 13.04%). Among the included papers that focused on a single type of metaverse, virtual worlds appeared as the most prominent type (n = 23, 50.00%), followed by augmented reality (n = 8, 17.39%) and mirror worlds (n = 4, 8.70%). The majority of papers concentrated on designing and developing metaverse systems, primarily targeting patients (n = 24, 47.06%), medical students (n = 12, 23.53%), and healthcare providers (n = 8, 15.69%). These systems addressed multiple clinical phases, including treatment/intervention (n = 17, 36.95%), education (n = 10, 21.74%), and patient follow-up (n = 5, 10.87%). CONCLUSION: In conclusion, this review suggests that metaverse applications in healthcare are still in the early stages of development, focusing primarily on system design and feasibility rather than proven clinical outcomes. Although emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and blockchain are emerging, evidence of clinical effectiveness remains limited. This review provides a descriptive roadmap of current trends and implementation frameworks to support prudent, evidence-based progress in understudied clinical areas.