Notes

augmented reality merges virtual images with the real world including real objects and real people

AR software built into smart glasses superimposes real-time data directly from a dental scanner, enabling a dentist to build precise crowns or caps.


Training nurses — AR-enabled, tablet-based simulations of different patient scenarios allow nurses to better connect with patients (e.g., SimMan) and handle daily work situations requiring a combination of social, technical, and team skills


Medical imaging — AR enhances visualization of CT or MRI data by superimposing stereoscopic projections during a surgical procedure. This information is vital in surgeries requiring precise navigation to a particular organ. For example, AR can be used for pre-operative planning enhances accurate localization of tumors and surrounding structures for performing procedures such as minimally invasive partial nephrectomy or radical prostatectomy where the challenging anatomy of the vascular or nervous system could complicate the tumor removal.


Medical education — Professors leverage AR to educate medical students on basic anatomy and concepts; doctors use it to learn about new therapies and drugs. ARnatomy, for example, uses an optical character recognition app to access textbook images and overlays digital information on human body structures to help students learn the names of bones and muscles. Its goal is to replace bulky textbooks and charts.
Pediatric MRI evaluation — Current Studios has developed a AR tablet game that measures children’s ability to lie still for a length of time before an MRI exam. Doctors use it to determine whether a child will need an anesthetic during an MRI procedure.
Helping the visually impaired — VA-ST’s SmartSpecs enhances the visual appearance of everyday objects and people using 3D recognition software. It helps legally blind people or those with serious visual impairments recognize familiar faces, find lost items, and easily navigate their environment.
Visualization of peripheral vasculature — The AccuVein AV400 digitally displays a real-time map of vasculature on the skin surface, allowing clinicians to verify vein patency. Patients benefit from less discomfort during venipuncture procedures.
Remote surgical expertise — VIPAR (Virtual Interactive Presence in Augmented Reality) is a video support solution that surpasses telemedicine. A surgeon remotely guides a peer during a procedure by projecting his hands into an AR display.