Radiology: Prospects of virtual reality

There are different virtual realities: non- immersive , semi-immersive and fully immersive. A non-immersive virtual reality is one that is view ed through a computer screen, similar to video games. Semi-immersive virtual reality, which is similar to a flight simulator, can simulate reality by including some physical movement. Fully immersive virtual reality goes further. Both VR are accessible through goggles , helmets, gloves, or similar devices. Virtual reality has not only made its way into the world of gaming, but is also turning out to be a valuable tool in the healthcare sector. Surgeon s can use it to prepare for operations by familiarizing themselves with the exact procedures they need to perform. In this way, they can explain the procedure to the patient. They can also refresh and deepen their knowledge, just like medical students, who can benefit from virtual reality by getting a deeper understanding of anatomy and preparing for incisions.

How are radiological scans visualize d? These images are provide d by radiologists so that surgeons can use them to enhance the surgery. Scans provided by radiological imaging are processed through various image processing methods in order to reconstruct a 3D model. The visualisation of 3D data sets is possible, as opposed to 3D images displayed on 2D screens; for example, CT, MRI and 3D ultrasound scans can be enhanced, as well as optical coherence tomography scans. Fortunately , even images taken long before the processing software was developed can still be used and reconstructed today.

Model building in radiology aims to facilitate more precise diagnoses and assist therapy decision s. 3D modelling can only be as accurate as the quality of the underlying images allows. It is thus subject to the error-proneness of each imaging process. More research is needed to further assess the error margin of virtual reality-based model building. In order to avoid misdiagnoses due to errors in the combination of images, the original data must always be refer red back to. These must be combined in such a way that the radiologist can understand the structure of the model and exclude misrepresentations. Another fascinating way of enhancing surgical precision is augmented reality. Augmented reality overlays virtual simulations onto real-world environments. An example from every-day life are shops that simulate try-ons of glasses for customers: or how various new sofas might look in your own living room. During surgery, x-ray scans of the bone structure can be implemented into the surgeon’s view to reveal essential details.

How might virtual reality relieve patient anxiety ? Patients often get anxious inside MRI scanners because they are prone and isolated in a loud, dark, narrow space. The stress reaction often includes strong defence reflexes possibly prolonging the procedure and corrupting the diagnosis result. To reduce anxiety, patients are often given sedatives to keep them calm.

One side-effect-free alternative is virtual reality. There are approaches in which virtual reality goggles are used before the scan to create a hypnotic effect. There are also methods of distracting the patient during the scan. Then, of course, the virtual reality device must be designed to work inside the MRI scanner.

Recently, research was conduct ed which virtual environments were shown to be most effective. Targeted distraction in the form of modern media such as movies, music, and digital games apparently influences the patient‘s attention through emotional stimuli. In general, a high immersion and absorption potential of a medium is very effective in distracting patients.

What can we expect of virtual reality? Research and development of virtual reality technology in medicine is often expensive and time consuming. Additionally, many goggles are still heavy, can cause dizziness when used for extended periods and might overheat. This raises the question of whether the benefit really outweighs these costs.

However, affordable products are already in use. Only through research and development can the scope of application be expanded and virtual reality be introduced into radiology practice as a meaningful method of improving patient understanding. The radiology community has the opportunity to actively and creatively influence the development of virtual reality in their field. And indeed, the attitude of many radiologists has changed in recent years in favour of virtual reality support.

Continuing education of the radiology community is essential to continue on the path toward a more comprehensive awareness of virtual reality perspectives.

EXERCISE:

1. Because many goggles are very heavy, they can cause dizziness when used for extend periods and might overheat. A) True B) False

2. Because VR research and development in medicine is easy to use it is very common to use it in medicine. A) True B) False

3. The visualisation of 3D data sets as opposed to 3D images displayed on 2D screens is only possible for 3D ultrasound scans. A) True B) False

You’ll find the answer below.

BIBLIOGRAPHY 1. www.diagnosticimaging.com

2. www.dict.cc

3. www.physicamedica.com

4. www.radiologytoday.net

5. www.merriam-webster.com

6. www.zukunftsinstitut.de

CARMEN LOBITZ Carmen Lobitz ist freie Trainerin, Lehrerin und MTL. Sie gründete 1998 in Berlin lobitz seminare, die unter anderem Englischseminare für Health Professionals anbieten.

Kontakt: mail@lobitz-seminare.de

www.lobitz-seminare.de

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Radiology: Prospects of virtual reality

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