Latest AR and VR innovations improve the quality of diagnostics, and treatment, helping the clinicians by providing them with quicker and more accurate access to real-time patient information than ever.
FERMONT, CA: AR and VR have made their way into clinical practices, and rapid developments in the growth of medical devices are contributing to better care delivery strategies. Recent advances in VR, AR, and mobile technology promise to speed up the learning curve for the new medical age. Providers and scientists are already testing VR use cases in diagnostics, and new applications entering the market are sure to revolutionize the medical care paradigm.
AR in Oncology
Understanding the depiction of precise 3D tumor volume visualization, distribution of therapy dose, and radiation damage to healthy tissue on computed tomography (CT), MRI, ultrasound, or positron emission tomography (PET) is essential for radiation oncologists who typically do not have formalized radiology training. Using a projector-based VR program, VR has already been used to educate patients, residents, and radiation therapists about patient placement. Also used to guide the positioning of brachytherapy needles were pilot studies using AR. Standardization and practice with procedural techniques in high-risk but necessary procedures such as brachytherapy could potentially improve safety.
VR in Treating Anxiety and Depression
Depression treatments and other severe mental health situations mainly target adverse symptoms such as hopelessness, sorrow, and anxiety— but they often do not assist with the absence of favorable emotions experienced by some patients. Now, with dozens of patients with anxiety and depression having anhedonia, the scientists are running a bigger survey. In an effort to make therapy with virtual reality easier and more affordable, patients are fitted with VR equipment that can be used at home with the help of smartphones. Patients are immersed in a sequence of situations over 13 virtual reality sessions, gliding through the channels. They are motivated to observe their ideas, emotions, and physical responses, then write them down after each session in an online diary.
Exposure Therapy with AR
The ever-increasing technology has resulted in the use of haptic feedback and physical computing for more realistic looking environments. The better the technology, the quicker the rate of enhancement in individuals with a phobia. Even if we look back on a couple of years ago, many businesses used various kinds of VR technology to assist individuals in overcoming their concerns. To expose patients to different scenarios, they use a virtual elevator or virtual cable car. They receive feedback in real-time as they track the vital signs of individuals for any sign of stress. The individual is standing on a custom-built platform that is connected to a fan that replicates the wind as they go up the elevator or cable car. They also include audio for the full immersion of the individual.
AR and VR create better patient care and direct positive effects on the clinicians with enhanced quality, risk reduction, and immediate financial gain.
