With state-of-the-art visualization technology, surgeons can map out all stages of invasive procedures.
Key Takeaways:
- Surgeons can use Intravision XR visualization technology to visualize Holographic 3D models of a patient’s anatomy to prepare for an invasive procedure.
- Holographic 3D models empower surgeons to understand unique relationships between different anatomical structures and determine the best course of action to treat each patient.
- Visualizations used in combination with augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) allow surgeons to use holograms to more fully understand the procedure and further reduce risk.
- Going forward, surgeons look poised to increasingly adopt visualization technology as part of their efforts to provide patients with the best care possible.
Invasive procedures can be risky for both the patient and surgeon. Ultimately, if a surgeon makes a mistake during an invasive procedure, the patient’s life is at risk. So, surgeons do everything in their power to prepare for invasive procedures and ensure each one is performed with precision and care. Emerging visualization technology, like Intravision XR, offers a new frontier of patient-specific digital imaging that can help surgeons improve outcomes and achieve their goals.
What is DICOM visualization technology for surgeons?
Intravision XR allows surgeons to produce 3D holograms based on patients’ actual MRI and CT scans. The holographic models showcase the patient’s specific anatomical structures in detail. In doing so, they enable surgeons to more accurately plan invasive procedures on the anatomy they’ll be treating. The images can be viewed on any digital screen but are best appreciated using augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies.
For example, surgeons from around the globe recently used the Microsoft HoloLens mixed-reality headset to perform a shoulder arthroscopy. During the procedure, one surgeon wore the headset and shared their field of view on computer screens via Microsoft Teams. This enabled two other surgeons on two other continents to see the patient and holographic images produced from a CT scan. The three surgeons were able to work together to complete the procedure from three different locations around the world.
This example highlights the potential of visualization technology for invasive and non-invasive procedures alike. When surgeons have the ability to share their point of view with peers, they can minimize risk throughout treatment.
Benefits of DICOM visualization technology for invasive procedures
The benefits of visualization technology for invasive procedures extend beyond helping surgeons prepare for treatment and collaborate with peers. Other reasons surgeons are exploring visualization technology include:
- Informed consent
Using visualizations for informed consent ensures surgeons can explain all aspects of an invasive procedure in a manner that’s easy for patients to understand. For example, a surgeon can produce a holographic 3D model of a patient’s anatomical structures and use Intravision XR to provide insights into any issues that affect these structures. Also, the surgeon can generate holograms to highlight each step of an invasive procedure and how it could correct myriad issues. This ensures the patient knows precisely what will happen during a procedure. Meanwhile, the surgeon can rest assured that their patient is fully prepared and informed to give consent.
- Improved patient experience
Surgeons can use visualizations to connect with patients at all stages of an invasive procedure. Initially, visualizations can be used to understand the patient’s anatomical structures and plan accordingly. Surgeons can then leverage holographic versions of 3D models of their patient’s anatomical structures to ensure an invasive procedure is performed correctly. They can even use visualizations to assess the results of their procedure, too. The bottom line: Visualization technology ensures a surgeon is well-equipped to provide their patient with an outstanding experience.
- Enhanced medical training
Medical students once required cadavers to practice invasive procedures. Now, visualization technology provides a safe, cost-effective alternative to cadavers. Case Western is the first university to use HoloAnatomy mixed reality software as part of its curriculum, and the technology proved vital when classes had to be conducted remotely due to COVID-19. Now more universities are adopting the HoloAnatomy technology.
Hologram technology enables medical students to build holographic 3D models based on CT and MRI scans and access them from virtually any location at any time. It eliminates, or at least reduces, the need for colleges and universities to invest in cadavers that can only be used once. These schools can instead leverage visualization technology that empowers students with the ability to gain invasive surgery experience faster and more efficiently than ever before using holographic models.
Visualization technology and the future of invasive procedures
Surgeons are constantly on the lookout for ways to improve and optimize patient care. As part of their efforts, they are increasingly exploring the use of visualization technology to deliver better outcomes across invasive procedures and other treatments.
Furthermore, Microsoft, Google, and other technology giants have entered the healthcare space. These businesses are working closely with surgeons and other healthcare professionals to provide AR and VR technologies that meet their needs. This could lead to enhancements in AR and VR across healthcare, along with associated visualization technology improvements.
Reap the benefits of visualization technology for invasive procedures
Visualization technology can benefit surgeons and their patients before, during, and after invasive procedures. For surgeons, the technology helps them provide exceptional care throughout the procedure. For patients, the technology allows them to receive the best support possible.
DICOM Director has introduced Intravision XR, a holographic 3D modeling software tool that allows surgeons and other healthcare professionals to use visualizations during medical procedures. Contact us today to learn more about Intravision XR.
