3D imaging is sharpening surgical planning by providing a technological edge
Key Takeaways:
- There are tools now available that can visualize 3D images out of a CT scan or MRI.
- The 3D images help surgeons plan surgery in a much better way — leading to better outcomes.
- 3D tools such as Microsoft HoloLens and mixed reality are making it easier for surgeons to visualize surgeries with precision.
- The software, Intravision XR, caters to all the 3D modeling needs of a present-day surgeon.
Rampant technological advancements are currently the norm. The rate of innovation is robust and keeping abreast is the order of the day. Technology is impacting not only our everyday chores but also shaping the future of medicine and surgery.
Medical science has taken a leap with the introduction of technology that can convert CT scans and MRIs into digital 3D images for a variety of medical applications. Now, 3D imaging has become a focal point of any surgical planning — and it doesn’t stop there. Let’s have a look at what’s going on in the industry.
Digital 3D holographic imaging
Digital 3D holographic imaging technology has ventured into the field of surgery with ultra-promising results. This technology can use CT scans and MRI data to produce 3D holograms of the images. That means you have 3D images of the actual anatomy of the patient being treated (which is impossible with other types of modeling). These holograms give surgeons much better insight into the patients’ anatomical and pathological conditions.
The digital availability of 3D holograms makes surgical visualization a much easier task. It also makes it simple to share the digital models with other professionals and invite opinions. Sharing holograms with the patients and discussing the surgical details can also make patients feel more at ease and help them give informed consent to treatment plans.
Digital 3D models of the patient’s organs and anatomical structures can also be viewed from different angles using an extended reality headset. The result could be much safer, faster, and more complication-free surgery.
3D printing
The availability of 3D imaging technology means that now 3D prints of the anatomical structures of the patients are possible. This gives surgeons a lot of planning leverage. The 3D prints allow surgeons to pre-evaluate all the aspects of the surgery to ensure a swift and precise procedure later on.
However, digital 3D modeling has proven to be more beneficial than physical 3D modeling. It is likely that, with the passage of time, the use of digital 3D modeling will become more prevalent.
Augmented reality
Based on this 3D imaging technology, a new system of augmented reality is available to medical practitioners. This system has gained FDA 501(k) clearance and surgeons are already using it to visualize patients’ anatomy along with instruments and implants — in real-time.
As far as preoperative planning is concerned, this system has proved to be a game-changer. It can also aid surgeons and proctors during intraoperative sessions.
Live augmented reality can be superimposed on the patient, allowing the surgeons to access additional information by wearing an AR headset. The glasses essentially mean that the surgeons can operate with something like X-ray vision derived from the 3D holograms while remaining more focused on their patients.
3 things to look for in a 3D imaging technology package
If you are looking to add holographic 3D imaging to your facility’s capabilities, here are three things you should consider:
1. How long does it take to produce a digital 3D image?
In order to be useful for patient consults, your system should be able to visualize holographic images from scan data quickly. Our platform, Intravision XR can rapidly generate multiple models according to your goals. The models are instantly uploaded onto the cloud server. It also offers X-ray vision that operates in real-time in a mixed reality environment.
2. Avoid solutions that require post-processing procedures
For medical usage, you shouldn’t have to allocate staff to color correcting or assembling your 3D holograms. With Intravision XR, a single process yields complete 3D models.
3. Ease of use
Another thing to consider is the technology investment this tool needs. You shouldn’t have to invest in graphic design computers or personnel to make it work. The Intravision XR application is cloud-based and does not need any installation. There is no hardware involved. The interface is purposefully user-friendly and supports voice commands for a completely hands-free experience.
Intravision XR provides a complete digital 3D imaging platform
Intravision XR is based on cloud technology. It automates the 3D modeling process, which means you can visualize fully formed 3D models from regular CT scans and MRI datasets at the push of a button.
The Intravision XR package offers many benefits to surgeons. The pre-op advantages include advanced visualization and convenient surgical planning. Also, the 3D images make it easier for surgeons to help their patients understand the surgical procedure.
Intravision XR offers all the latest 3D imaging technology applications for your surgical planning needs conveniently and without the need for any hardware installation. The software is HIPAA compliant and securely encrypted. For further information, Contact DICOM Director today.
